In a case that exposes the continual struggle against corruption within our nation's penal institutions, former federal correctional officer Najee Jackson entered a guilty plea for his attempt to smuggle marijuana and cigarettes into the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. As reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York, Jackson's contraband was hidden inside his Bureau of Prisons-issued protective vest but was discovered during a security screening.
The incident, which transpired in January of 2025, was uncovered when Jackson, unable to clear the metal detector, reluctantly let go of his vest. What laid within was not just the protective fabric, but sealed bags of prohibited substances meant to find their way onto the black market that thrives behind bars. It was only two days after being caught that Jackson resigned from his post at the Bureau of Prisons.
Upon accepting Jackson's guilty plea, United States Attorney Joseph Nocella, Jr. declared, "His actions undermined the safety and security of his fellow correctional officers and the inmates at MDC-Brooklyn." Nocella underscores the betrayal, stressing that such abuse of authority will not be tolerated and justice will be sought. Special Agent in Charge Ryan T. Geach of the Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General, reinforced this position, emphasizing their commitment to "rooting out corruption within our federal prisons," as per the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Consequences for such illicit activities can be severe, with Jackson facing up to five years in prison for his attempt to sneak contraband. The sentence is yet to be handed down by United States District Judge Orelia E. Merchant.
Assistant United States Attorney Russell Noble, who is heading up the prosecution, will continue to manage the government's case, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Office’s Public Integrity Section.
