Prison staff arrested during smuggling investigation

AMITE, Louisiana (WAFB) – Authorities say a Tangipahoa Parish Correctional Facility employee was arrested during an investigation into contraband being smuggled into the parish jail.

Tajah Phillips, 21, is accused of smuggling goods into a correctional facility and abuse of office.

According to the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office, numerous tips were received from the public indicating that Phillips was selling or distributing illegal items to inmates at the Tangipahoa Parish Jail.

An investigation confirmed the allegations against Phillips, authorities said, adding that Phillips was fired and arrested on Tuesday afternoon, August 27.

“One of the main focuses of my tenure has been the jail – not just its security, but its functionality and operations,” said Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Gerald Sticker. “Success in all of these areas depends on the people who work there. While we are actively improving the professional development, standards and expectations of our correctional officers with certified training, this abuse of authority occurs. The habits of the past have no place in this culture change we are establishing at TPSO.”

If the public has any information that may assist in an investigation, they are asked to call Tangipahoa Parish Crime Stoppers at 1-800-554-5245.

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