Correctional Officer Charged In Sexual Assault Of Inmate: Douglas Co. Sheriff

DOUGLASVILLE, GA — A Douglas County correctional officer has been arrested after authorities say he had a sexual relationship with a female inmate.

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday said Christian Nicholas Joe was investigated Monday after authorities received a tip regarding a suspected sexual assault against the inmate.

Joe was employed with the sheriff's office for 37 days prior to the probe, authorities said.

He was arrested on charges of sexual assault by a correctional officer, aggravated sodomy and violation of oath of office, authorities said.

He was booked into the Douglas County Adult Detention Center and was denied bond during his first court appearance held at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, authorities said.

"The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office conducts an extensive background investigation on all new employees, including a psychological evaluation, polygraph examination, reference check, criminal history review, interview and thorough personal and work history verification. Sheriff Tim Pounds directed his own investigators to handle the case and pursue prosecution, sending a clear message to all employees that this type of conduct will not be tolerated under any circumstances," authorities said in a news release.

ALSO SEE: Get The Latest Local News (For Free!) With One Quick Tap