Federal Prison Nurse Sentenced for False Statements Relating to Her Relationship with an Inmate

ST. PAUL – Jessica Lynn Larson, age 38, was sentenced yesterday in United States District Court to six months imprisonment followed by a year of supervised release for one count of false statements, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.

While working as a nurse at FMC Rochester, Larson had a compromising sexual relationship with an inmate. Larson and the inmate exchanged sexually explicit love letters in which they professed their love for one another and discussed various sexual acts. In April 2024, Larson and the inmate had a sexual encounter. Sexual relationships between staff and inmates are prohibited due to the power imbalance between them.

Shortly after, other nurses at FMC Rochester reported the inappropriate relationship. When confronted about the relationship, Larson falsely accused the inmate of sexually assaulting her, forcing her to engage in a “fantasy” relationship, and threatening to hurt her children if she refused or reported the conduct. Bureau of Prisons staff members later found the love letters they exchanged proving Larson was lying.

Moreover, several months later after being placed on administrative leave, Larson drove to Ohio from which she sent another love letter to the inmate who had been moved to another prison location.

“The DOJ-OIG’s commitment to rooting out inappropriate relationships within correctional facilities is paramount. Such misconduct frequently facilitates contraband smuggling and bribery, directly compromising the safety of both staff and inmates,” said OIG Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Nutt.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeanne Semivan prosecuted the case.