GOLDEN, Colo. — A former Jefferson County detention deputy is accused of having sexual relations with inmates, introducing contraband and drug possession, according to a news release from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
Myriah Lynn Lovato, 29, turned herself in Friday after a felony warrant was issued for her arrest. The felony charges include sexual conduct in a correctional institution, multiple counts of introducing contraband and unlawful possession of a controlled substance.
Lovato was the subject of a criminal investigation that was initiated on Dec. 22 after deputies were informed of "employee misconduct," according to the release.
The sheriff’s office said Lovato was subsequently booked through the detentions facility that same day and placed on unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Lovato, who was hired Jan. 7, 2016, resigned from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office on Jan. 2, the release read.
On Friday, a warrant for her arrest was issued on felony and misdemeanor charges, including three counts of first degree official misconduct and two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia.
Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Shrader released a video statement regarding the investigation. The sheriff’s office said they will conduct an internal investigation upon completion of the criminal investigation.