CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga (WSAV) — The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a correctional officer after she allegedly brought drugs and contraband into the Chatham County Detention Center.

Georgette Ruthielee Bennett, 26, was terminated during her probationary period for violating policy. Bennett had been employed with CCSO since May 31, 2021. CCSO’s Criminal Investigation Unit (CID) launched an investigation that ultimately led to Bennett’s arrest.

Authorities say the investigation began on Dec. 21 when they received tips from employees about the situation.

“This one bad apple does not represent the employees of this organization,” Chatham County Chief Deputy Gary Taylor said at a press conference.

Bennett is currently being charged with smuggling drugs and contraband into the detention center, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, drug trafficking, giving prohibited items to inmates and violating the oath of a public officer.

Taylor confirmed Bennett had smuggled fentanyl into the detention center through styrofoam cups disguised as drinks with ice on top. Taylor called it “a sad day” for law enforcement.

Montez Wade, Bennett’s alleged supplier, was also arrested and booked into the Chatham County Jail for drug trafficking.

photo courtesy of the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office

“One of my employees who has been arrested for drugs and smuggling into the jail,” Sheriff John T. Wilcher. “We try very hard here to hire the best people that move forward and evidently again you get a bad egg, as you can see behind me, young lady has been charged with numerous counts of drugs and everything”.

According to John Sarhatt, Director of Chatham-Savannah Counter Narcotics Team, Bennett has been placed into protective custody for her safety. Sarhatt says the investigation is still underway and remains fluid.