- November 23, 2024
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A Volusia County Corrections officer was arrested Wednesday, May 15, after he engaged in a sexual relationship with an inmate.
The Volusia County Sheriff's Office became aware of allegations of sexual battery at the jail by Lt. Jonathan Harding on May 2, following an internal affairs investigation that began mid-April. A jail report documented that Harding was observed bringing the inmate medications throughout his shift, as well as providing her his personal cell phone for use.
Detectives obtained Harding's text message history from his county issued phone and found evidence that he had engaged in sexual conduct with the inmate. The messages also referenced times when Harding would bring her medicine such as DayQuil and food from Chipotle, which was confirmed through jail surveillance footage, according to his arrest report.
On April 29, Harding was temporarily reassigned to the Volusia County Animal Control facility due to the ongoing IA investigation.
VSO Detectives interviewed Harding on May 3, who confirmed the sexual relationship with the inmate, according to his arrest report.
Harding faces five charges, including felony Sexual Misconduct Employee/Inmate, felony Unlawful Use of a Two-way Communication Device, two Felony Introduction of Contraband to County Detention Facility charges, and a misdemeanor Introduction of Contraband to County Detention Facility charge, according to a Volusia County press release.
While he was booked at the Volusia County Branch Jail, and detained in administrative segregation, he will be transferred to a correctional facility outside of Volusia County for the duration of his pretrial detainment, or until a bond is posted, according to the county. He is now on unpaid administrative leave, pending the outcome of a trial.
Harding began his career with Volusia County Corrections on Feb. 28, 2011, and had received no disciplinary actions prior to his arrest.
