Two individuals are facing charges for engaging in sexual activity with an inmate at the Durham County Detention Center, a revelation that has sparked controversies within the law enforcement community.
According to a statement by ABC11, a second person was formally charged on Thursday, in an egregious breach of protocol at the detention facility. The charges come after Lerin Burnette, affiliated to a contracting vendor, and a former detention officer, Jade Shanicia Lanique Robertson, were implicated in the incident. The Durham County Sheriff's Office confirmed that both individuals are no longer employed at the detention facility.
The situation has been met with unequivocal condemnation by Durham County Sheriff Clarence F. Birkhead. "I will not stand for any activity which contradicts our mission in the care and custody of the people who are confined to the detention facility," Birkhead stated in a WRAL report. "Whether it is a sheriff’s office employee or a contractor we must hold everyone who interacts with our residents to a high standard."
Both Robertson and Burnette are accused of violating state law specifically prohibiting sexual activity between inmates and staff, which, is considered a Class E felony, as described by a News & Observer article. Public documents allege that these incidents, involving Robertson and Burnette, occurred on the same day. Despite Burnette’s release on a $25,000 unsecured bond, the case underscores the stringent measures necessary to maintain order and propriety within correctional facilities.
Details regarding the progression of the legal proceedings have not been widely disclosed, however, the disturbing nature of the charges against the former employees has underscored the obligation of enforcement agencies to uphold the fidelity of their mission to safeguard those within their walls, and the community at large.
