Former correctional officer charged after smuggling contraband into Central West facility

A former Corrective Services NSW officer has been charged with 10 offences following an investigation into corruption and the introduction of contraband at a correctional facility in the state's Central West.

In September last year, detectives from the Corrective Services Investigation Unit commenced an investigation under Strike Force Zandona into corrupt activities at correctional centres in the state's Central West.

During the investigation, detectives received information that a female Corrective Services NSW officer was involved in the introduction of contraband at a facility near Dubbo.

Following extensive inquiries, Strike Force Zandona investigators arrested a 34-year-old woman at a home at Wellington about 11am yesterday (Wednesday 15 July 2020).

The woman was taken to Wellington Police Station and charged with six counts of agent corruptly receive benefit, two counts of supply prohibited drug, holder of public office misconduct herself and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.

Police will allege in court that the woman trafficked contraband, including prohibited drugs and tobacco, into a facility in return for financial benefits from the family members of inmates, while employed as a Corrective Services NSW officer.

She was granted strict conditional bail to appear at Wellington Local Court on Tuesday 18 August 2020.

The woman's employment was terminated by Corrective Services NSW in June this year.

Investigations under Strike Force Zandona are continuing.

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