Officer Under Scrutiny For Sexual Contact With Ex-Inmate

BEULAH (WWJ/AP) - A jail officer in the northern Lower Peninsula has been placed on paid leave while he's investigated for sexual contact with a former inmate.

Benzie County Sheriff Rory Heckman told the Traverse City Record-Eagle the officer, whose name wasn't disclosed, has worked for the sheriff's department since 2005.

Heckman wouldn't provide details, but said the investigation involves conduct while on duty and off duty at the jail in Beulah. The more serious allegations involve off-duty conduct, he said.

Michigan State Police are investigating the allegations, which Heckman said are being taken "very seriously."

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