https://hoodline.com/2026/02/former-bureau-of-prisons-officer-pleads-guilty-to-bribery-and-money-laundering-at-fci-jesup/

In a recent breakdown of corruption within the Bureau of Prisons, Ashley Brown, a former corrections officer, pleaded guilty to charges related to a prison contraband trafficking conspiracy. As reported by the Department of Justice, Brown, who hails from Hinesville, GA, admitted to accepting bribes and participating in money laundering at the Federal Correctional Institution – Jesup (FCI Jesup).

Accepting over $80,000 in bribes, Brown's scheme involved using Cash App, a financial transaction service, to receive payments from individuals associated with FCI Jesup inmates through accounts with fictitious names such as "Bonnie Bonnie" and "Clyde Clyde." Originally charged alongside seven current or former inmates, Brown was the last defendant to enter a guilty plea, closing the chapter on the United States of America v. Ashley Brown et. al. case. "In collaboration with our law enforcement partners, we are committed to protecting the integrity of our nation's prison system from those who would exploit them for profit," U.S. Attorney Heap declared, obtained by a statement from the Department of Justice.

The contraband brought into the facility by Brown included methamphetamine, K2, cell phones, and other prohibited items, violating her duties as a correctional officer and jeopardizing the safety of both inmates and staff. As per the Department of Justice, her actions were a clear infringement on her sworn responsibilities.

These serious offenses were put to light by the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General, which identified numerous inmates providing money to Brown through Cash App records. Eric Fehlman, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Southeast Region, stated, "Brown violated her sworn duty as a Correctional Officer by allowing drugs and other contraband into FCI Jesup, putting inmates and her fellow correctional officers at risk," as noted by the DOJ. The case, led by Assistant United States Attorneys Bradley R. Thompson and Ryan E. Bondura, highlighted the thorough work of those committed to uncovering and prosecuting such acts of corruption. Questions about the case can be directed to the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.