HOUSTON - A 28-year-old man from Houston has entered a guilty plea to bribery of a federal employee, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe Martinez along with Special Agent in Charge Perrye K. Turner of the FBI.
Jacoby Derrell Randall first came to the attention of law enforcement in early 2017. At that time, authorities had received numerous reports that prison guards were smuggling contraband into the Joe Corley Detention Facility which houses federal inmates. The investigation revealed that Randall was smuggling various contraband into the prison, including food, various electronic devices and marijuana.
During the plea today, Randall admitted he smuggled various contraband in exchange for bribes in violation of his official duties.
“The FBI is dedicated to investigating allegations of public corruption at any level," said Turner. “Public corruption erodes the public’s confidence in our democracy and will not be tolerated."
Sentencing has been set for Feb. 12, 2018, before U.S. District Judge Lynn Hughes. At that time, Randall faces up to 15 years in federal prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Julie N. Searle is prosecuting the case.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
