Roger B. Handberg, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida
United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg has announced that Miguel Hidalgo, a 34-year-old from Florida, has pleaded guilty to depriving an inmate of civil rights under the color of law. Hidalgo, who was employed as a correctional officer at Federal Correctional Complex Coleman by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, could face up to 10 years in federal prison. The sentencing date is yet to be determined.
The plea agreement reveals that on August 22, 2022, while on duty at the prison, Hidalgo entered the cell of two handcuffed inmates. Inside the cell, he pushed one inmate to the floor and struck him multiple times in the face and chest area. After being spat on by the inmate while exiting, Hidalgo requested to reenter the cell and continued to strike and kick the inmate. The assault resulted in injuries including multiple rib fractures and facial contusions for the inmate.
The investigation into this case was conducted by the Department of Justice - Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg is prosecuting the case.
