United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York Jay Clayton announced on July 15 the unsealing of an indictment charging Kyle Brown, a former federal correctional officer, with three counts of sexual abuse of a ward for engaging in sexual acts with an inmate under his supervision at Federal Correctional Institution Otisville. Brown was arrested and is scheduled to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Victoria Reznik. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Philip M. Halpern.
“Sexual abuse will be met with federal charges throughout our society; it has no place anywhere and victims deserve protection everywhere,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “When a correctional officer abuses their power and harms an inmate, it is not only a violation of federal law—it is a betrayal of the trust that New York families place in our institutions. We will continue to protect victims, pursue the truth, and hold accountable anyone who abuses their power for their own sexual gratification.”
FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr., said, “As alleged, Kyle Brown abused his authority to engage in sexual acts with an inmate under his protection. The FBI is committed to holding corrupt civil servants accountable.” DOJ Office of Inspector General Special Agent in Charge Ryan T. Geach said, “The safety and security of federal prisons are of the utmost importance, and the DOJ OIG vigorously investigates allegations of abuse of inmates by Federal Bureau of Prisons staff to ensure that those who break the law and the public’s trust are held accountable.” Federal Bureau of Prisons Director William K. Marshall III said, “The allegations in the case represent a profound abuse of authority and a betrayal of public trust… Working alongside our law enforcement partners, we will pursue anyone who violates the law and ensure they are held accountable.”
According to court documents cited in the indictment and other public filings, between 2024 and July 1, 2026, Brown was employed as a correctional officer at FCI Otisville where he engaged on three occasions between December 26, 2025, and April 4, 2026, in anal or oral sex with an inmate over whom he had authority.
Brown faces three counts carrying a maximum sentence each of up to fifteen years imprisonment as prescribed by Congress; however, any sentencing decision will be determined by judicial discretion.
Clayton commended investigative efforts from multiple agencies including FBI Hudson Valley White Collar Crime Task Force and Otisville FCI Special Investigative Swift Response teams handling this matter through its Civil Rights and Human Trafficking Unit within its Criminal Division.
Officials emphasized that all charges remain accusations until proven otherwise; Brown is presumed innocent unless or until convicted.