Acadia correctional officer charged with contraband

Authorities in Acadia Parish have arrested one of their own after receiving information that contraband was being brought in to the Acadia Parish Detention Center.
According to Acadia Parish Sheriff Wayne Melancon, the sheriff’s office received information that someone was illegal bringing narcotics and tobacco products into the facility. An investigation into the incident and a search of the facility revealed illegal narcotics, tobacco products and cell phones in inmate bunks and also concealed within the dorms.
Following an investigation, a warrant of arrest was issued for Lester J. Landry, 25, of the 200 block of Mary Street in Iota. Lester began employment with the Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Office in September 2014 as a part-time correctional officer. At the time of his arrest he was still serving his probationary period.
Melancon said that through the investigation he learned that Landry was responsible for providing illegal narcotics to inmates. It is alleged that Landry was working with several non-law enforcement individuals to obtain the illegal substances that were in turn given to inmates. Landry is being charged with malfeasance in office and also bringing contraband into a penal institution.
District Judge John Trahan set bond on Landry at $30,000.