Philadelphia Federal Detention Center guard charged with sexually assaulting inmate.

A corrections officer at the Philadelphia Federal Detention Center has been accused of sexually assaulting a female inmate. The incident reportedly took place on July 6, 2024, when Michael Jefferson, 42, of Cherry Hill, allegedly forced the woman to the ground and assaulted her while in his custody. This information was detailed in an official indictment revealing charges against Jefferson that include aggravated sexual abuse and deprivation of rights, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Jefferson, who has been suspended from his position with the Bureau of Prisons, currently does not have an attorney listed in court records. The circumstances of his suspension and any prior complaints against him have not been disclosed by prosecutors. If convicted of these serious charges, Jefferson could face a maximum sentence of life in prison.

The victim, who has not been identified publicly, sustained injuries during the assault, shedding light on the severe implications of this case. Federal detention facilities, such as the one in Philadelphia, have come under scrutiny for maintaining the safety and well-being of inmates. The facility is capable of housing up to 950 prisoners, many of whom are either awaiting trial on federal charges or serving short sentences for convicted offenses. Recently, it was announced that this detention center would also begin housing detainees from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), indicating a shift in its inmate demographics.

The Philadelphia Federal Detention Center has seen a troubling series of incidents in addition to the alleged assault by Jefferson. Just last month, charges were brought against a criminal defense attorney and the mother of an inmate for attempting to smuggle contraband items into the facility. In another alarming case earlier this year, a 31-year-old inmate died after an assault in his cell, leading to a lawsuit filed by his family, which remains pending.

The Philadelphia Federal Detention Center raises significant concerns regarding the treatment and protection of inmates within its walls. As the case against Jefferson unfolds, it highlights the pressing need for comprehensive oversight and reform within correctional facilities to ensure the safety and rights of all detainees. The ongoing situation not only draws attention to individual accountability but also to systemic issues affecting the treatment of vulnerable populations in the federal prison system.

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