Prison Contraband Probe Leads to Officer and Inmate Charges

Oneida County, NY – An investigation into the introduction of illegal contraband into the Oneida County Correctional Facility has resulted in the arrests of both a corrections officer and an inmate. Sheriff Robert Maciol confirmed the charges on Monday following a multi-week probe by the department's specialized intelligence units.

According to the Oneida County Sheriff's Office, the investigation began in late August 2026 after corrections officers assigned to the Jail Intelligence Unit identified the possibility that contraband was being smuggled into the facility. The Criminal Investigation Unit was subsequently brought in to assist with the inquiry due to the sensitivity of the allegations.

On September 18, 2026, authorities arrested 29-year-old Corrections Officer Teresa Crim of Ilion. Crim, who had been employed with the department since 2023, faces charges including one count of official misconduct, one count of promoting prison contraband in the second degree, and one count of conspiracy in the sixth degree.

All charges are categorized as misdemeanors. Crim is currently suspended from duty, and her employment termination is pending.

Charges were also filed against 28-year-old inmate Johnathan Franklin of Utica on September 21, 2026. Franklin faces identical charges of promoting prison contraband and conspiracy.

Because he is already incarcerated, his arraignment is scheduled to occur at a later date in the Centralized Arraignment Part (CAP) Court. The sheriff's office emphasized that the integrity of the correctional facility is a priority and that any breach of security by staff will be investigated thoroughly. The case remains open as authorities continue to evaluate evidence gathered during the investigation.

This article was produced by our editorial team with assistance from automated tools. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!