FDC Philadelphia Correctional Officer Charged With Sexual Abuse, Violating Inmate’s Civil Rights

PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Michael Jefferson, 42, of Cherry Hill, New Jersey, a correctional officer at Federal Detention Center (FDC) Philadelphia, was arrested today and charged by indictment with one count of aggravated sexual abuse, one count of sexual abuse, one count of sexual abuse of a ward, and one count of deprivation of rights under color of law, arising from his alleged sexual abuse of an FDC inmate under his authority.

The indictment alleges that on or about July 6, 2024, the defendant knowingly caused and attempted to cause the victim to engage in a sexual act by using force, resulting in bodily injury to the victim.

The indictment further alleges that, while acting under color of law, Jefferson willfully deprived the victim of her right not to be subjected to cruel and unusual punishment, a right secured and protected by the Constitution and laws of the United States, which includes the right to be free from sexual abuse by a correctional officer.

Jefferson has been suspended from his position by the Bureau of Prisons.

If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.

The case was investigated by the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meghan Claiborne.

The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.