CENTRAL ISLIP, NY – Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced the arrest of Jason Middleton, a 35-year-old Suffolk County Corrections Officer, for alleged sexual misconduct and official misconduct. The arrest occurred on November 24, 2023, following accusations of Middleton forcing an inmate to perform oral sex.
Middleton, from Central Islip, reportedly exploited his position at the Riverhead Correctional Facility to commit the alleged act. According to the investigation, between April 26 and September 29, 2023, Middleton is said to have used a utility walkway, known to be a blind spot in security camera coverage, to carry out the assault. He is accused of previously threatening the inmate with planting contraband to compel compliance.
District Attorney Tierney condemned the violation of trust and duty by Middleton. Similarly, Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. expressed shock and disgust, emphasizing the isolated nature of the incident in contrast to the dedication of other staff members.
Middleton faces charges of a Class E felony for Criminal Sexual Act in the Third Degree and a Class A misdemeanor for Official Misconduct. He is expected to be arraigned on November 25, 2023, in Southampton Town Justice Court. Under current New York State law, these offenses do not qualify for bail, and Middleton is expected to be placed on supervised release.