BY KELLI PEACOCK DUNN
News Editor
Three correctional officers have been arrested for allegedly taking money from families and girlfriends of Calhoun Correctional Institution inmates in exchange for protection, special treatment and contraband.
Colonel Sammy John McAlpin, 43, of Sneads, Officer Stephen Pickron, 34, and Officer Nicholas Hansford, 24, both of Blountstown, have all been charged with unlawful compensation for official behavior. McAlpin has also been charged with official misconduct.
According to the arrest affidavit, numerous cash transfers to the CaCI officers were made through Western Union during 2010 and 2011. McAlpin, who served as chief of security at CaCI, allegedly orchestrated the scheme.
The investigation began after the husband of a former correctional officer discovered an estimated 40 letters at his home written to his wife by a CaCI inmate. Not only did the letters suggest a staff-offender relationship, but also referenced illegal activity going on at the institution. One of the letters referred to the inmate paying Col. “Big Daddy” McAlpin $ 500 for protection and the use of a cell phone.
Several thousand dollars were allegedly exchanged during the scheme.
The three officers were booked into the Calhoun County Jail Wednesday and have all been given a conditional release. More details on this case in next week’s print edition.
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