Former Correctional Officer Sentenced For Sexually Assaulting A Federal Inmate

United States Attorney Kenyen R. Brown of the Southern District of Alabama announced that Samuel A. Hart, a former Correctional Officer of Escambia County Detention Center, was sentenced today before the Honorable District Court Judge Kristi Dubose for sexually assaulting a federal inmate.

Hart, who has no other criminal history, appeared before the Court today for his sentencing hearing. The defense argued that Hart has a low chance of recidivism due to his lack of criminal history. The United States argued that Hart abused his position of trust by engaging in sexual conduct with an inmate in his custody.  This conduct, according to the United States, should not occur regardless of one’s circumstances. Hart had only been on the job for eighteen (18) days before he committed this crime. While engaging in his official duties, he decided to engage in sexual intercourse with an inmate during transport. Additionally, he had the federal inmate perform oral sex on him.  Hart was terminated from employment as a Correctional Officer.

After hearing the arguments from both sides, the Court sentenced Hart to a split sentence, which consists of five (5) months in custody and five (5) months home confinement. He is required to pay the cost for the electronic monitoring during his home confinement. Moreover, the court sentenced Hart to a five (5) year term of supervised release, during which he will be subjected to several terms and conditions as imposed by the court. He is also required to pay $100 special assessment. As a result of this conviction, Hart is also required to register as a sex offender.

This case was investigated by the United States Marshal Service and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Suntrease Williams-Maynard and George May.