Tyree D.

Jones, Sheriff
Hinds County Sheriff’s Office
407 East Pascagoula Street
Jackson, MS 39201
website: http://www.hindsso.org

For Immediate Release MEDIA/PUBLIC RELEASE

Date: March 29, 2023

Operation Contraband Crackdown

Hinds County, MS – On Tuesday, March 28, 2023, the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office Criminal
Investigations Division assisted by the Patrol Division and the Narcotics Division conducted an operation
at the Raymond Detention Center regarding contraband and other illegal items being introduced to the
facility. As a result of the operation, a large amount of contraband was recovered and interrupted from
being introduced into the facility. The contraband included a cell phone, illegal narcotics to include
prescription pills, marijuana, fentanyl, tobacco and lighters. Investigators also seized $4,500.00 in US
Currency believed to be connected to this investigation and recovered a Glock pistol from a vehicle in the
parking lot, also believed to be connected to this investigation.

As a result of this investigation, three HCSO Detention Officers were arrested and charged. They are
identified as, Sgt. Harry Rutledge-44, charged with conspiracy to introduce contraband to a penal facility
and introduction of contraband to a penal facility, Detention Officer Arkeisha Martin-27, charged with
conspiracy to introduce contraband to a penal facility and introduction of contraband to a penal facility
and Detention Officer Kayla Sims-27, charged with introduction of contraband to a penal facility. All
three employees were on duty at the time of their arrests. They were charged and booked into the
Raymond Detention Center. They are currently on administrative leave with pay pending termination,
which should be completed today.

This investigation in ongoing and more arrests and/or charges are possible. The HCSO will continue to
address the issue of contraband being introduced into the facility and those found in violation will be held
accountable.

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 Tyree D. Jones, Sheriff
Hinds County Sheriff’s Office
407 East Pascagoula Street
Jackson, MS 39201
website: http://www.hindsso.org

Sgt. Harry Rutledge Detention Officer Arkeisha Martin Detention Officer Kayla Sims