Former Arizona corrections officer allegedly distributed drugs or contraband

PHOENIX — An officer within the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry is no longer employed after distributing drugs and contraband to inmates, the ADCRR said in a statement to 12News.

Former Correctional Officer III Berman Comon allegedly distributed “drugs and/or contraband within the prison complex and in the community,” ADCRR said in a statement. Comon had been employed by ADCRR for 11 years prior to Jan. 3, which is 

“The Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation, and Reentry (ADCRR) takes immense pride in the dedication and professionalism our officers demonstrate daily in maintaining the safety of the community, staff, and inmates,” ADCRR said in a statement to 12News. “Upholding the highest standards of integrity is at the core of our mission, and we take swift and decisive action when those standards are not met.”

The ADCRR initiated a criminal investigation of Comon approximately five months ago, which resulted in evidence, including video footage, of Comon’s alleged actions. The department’s investigation into Comon did not include any other staff members, ADCRR said.

“The ADCRR remains committed to its dedication to transparency and accountability, ensuring that all staff members adhere to the highest standards of conduct,” the ADCRR said in a statement to 12News. “These actions demonstrate our unwavering resolve to maintain public trust and the safety of all under our care.”

Comon appeared in court on Jan. 9 and video of the court proceedings shows he is facing numerous charges, including:

• 1 count narcotic drug possession for sale
• 1 count drug transportation
• 2 counts taking contraband into a prison facility
• 1 count conspiracy
• 1 count illegal control of enterprise

The court documents related to the ongoing investigation were sealed after a Maricopa County Attorney’s Office representative asked the judge to do so because the court documents identified individuals at DOC involved in the distribution network. 

In court proceedings, Comon was said to have played a “vital role in bringing in illegal drugs and contraband to the inmates.” A cash-only bond was set for Comon at $75,000.

>> This story will be updated as additional information becomes available. Stay with 12News for the latest.

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