FLINT– A former Michigan Department of Corrections officer was charged in a federal indictment with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; possession with intent to distribute cocaine; and possession with intent to distribute heroin, announced United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison.
Joining in the announcement was Acting Special Agent in Charge Kent Kleinschmidt, Drug Enforcement Administration, Detroit Division.
Charged was Brandon McGaffigan, 29, of Flint, Michigan. McGaffigan was employed as a corrections officer at Thumb Correctional Facility in Lapeer County Michigan.
According to the indictment, McGaffigan is alleged to have possessed with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine as well as cocaine and heroin on January 22, 2022 with the intent of delivering the drugs into the prison. The indictment was returned on April 6, 2022. McGaffigan surrendered to DEA investigators and was arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Curtis Ivy, Jr., the following day where he was released on bond. A trial date is currently set for June 14, 2022, in Flint, Michigan.
“As a corrections officer, McGaffigan’s duties are to maintain safety and security within the facility,” stated U.S. Attorney Ison. “The allegations that he intended to smuggle drugs into the prison completely undermines his duties as a corrections officer and creates significant dangers within the walls of the prison.”
“Illicit drugs have no place in our society, but they can be especially problematic inside a correctional facility,” said Detroit Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Kent Kleinschmidt. “No matter your profession or background, DEA will investigate anyone who violates the nation’s drug laws.”
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The Drug Enforcement Administration Flint Residence Office, in coordination with the Thumb Area Narcotics Unit, the Michigan Department of Corrections, and Michigan State Police investigated this case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Turkelson.
An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.