A federal correctional officer from Ocala, Florida, has been indicted on charges of sexual abuse of a federal inmate and receipt of a bribe by a public official. The United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announced that Cornelius Alexander Thompson, 38, faces one count for each alleged offense. If convicted on all counts, Thompson could be sentenced to up to 30 years in federal prison.
The indictment alleges that Thompson was employed as a correctional officer at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Coleman) by the United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons. Authorities state that between January 2020 and August 9, 2023, Thompson engaged in a sexual act with an inmate under his custodial authority at the facility. Additionally, from January 2020 through April 29, 2024, he is accused of accepting money in exchange for smuggling contraband into FCC Coleman.
The indictment seeks forfeiture of $24,550, which represents the proceeds allegedly obtained from bribery.
“An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty,” according to the announcement.
The case is being investigated by the United States Department of Justice – Office of the Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson is prosecuting the case.
