Jefferson County, Arkansas – The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) confirmed on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, that Deputy Jailer Keywand Harris, assigned to the W.C. “Dub” Brassell Adult Detention Center (DBDC), has been arrested in connection with allegations of sexual assault and prohibited fraternization with a detainee. The announcement follows an internal investigation by the JCSO Criminal Investigation Division (CID) that began last month.
According to officials, the inquiry was launched on August 27, 2025, after investigators received information suggesting that Deputy Harris had engaged in a romantic relationship with a female detainee. Following the initial report, Harris was immediately placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation, a standard procedure intended to ensure both staff accountability and detainee safety.
Investigators uncovered that Harris had been spending extended periods of time in the female housing unit, known as G Pod. During the investigation, evidence suggested that Harris engaged in inappropriate physical contact with a detainee. During a subsequent interview, Harris reportedly admitted to having had a prior sexual relationship with the detainee before her incarceration and acknowledged maintaining contact, including kissing her while she was in custody.
As a result, Harris was booked into the DBDC on the charge of Sexual Assault in the Third Degree, a Class C felony under Arkansas law. If convicted, Harris could face a prison sentence of three to ten years and fines of up to $10,000.
Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods, Jr. issued a statement condemning the deputy’s actions. “I am deeply disappointed by the actions of Deputy Jailer Harris. Our oath is to protect those in our care, uphold the rule of law, and model the highest ethical standards. Any betrayal of that trust, especially involving a person in custody, undermines public confidence,” Woods said. “Let this serve as a constant reminder: no one is above the law, least of all those sworn to enforce it. We will continue to act swiftly and decisively when policy or the law is violated.”
JCSO emphasized that it maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual abuse, sexual harassment, or any form of fraternization with detainees. All staff members are trained according to federal Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) standards, as well as the department’s own policies. The case remains under active investigation, and additional administrative actions are expected to follow in accordance with due process.
Officials confirmed that no further details about the case will be released at this time to protect the integrity of the investigation. Additional updates will be provided as they become available and deemed appropriate.
The arrest of Deputy Harris has sent a clear message that law enforcement officials are not immune from accountability, particularly when it comes to upholding the safety and rights of those in their custody. As the investigation continues, both the sheriff’s office and the broader community are watching closely for further developments.
The allegations have also sparked conversations about detention center oversight and the measures in place to prevent misconduct, highlighting the importance of robust internal controls and adherence to federal and state standards. JCSO leadership reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all detainees are treated with dignity, safety, and respect.
