James Breaux, a former deputy with the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, was arrested on Wednesday, December 5, for malfeasance in office and introduction to contraband to a penal institution.

According to Sheriff Jeff Wiley, an investigation began in late October after investigators received information that Breaux allegedly smuggled contraband, specifically a cell phone, into the Ascension Parish Jail. That investigation concluded on Wednesday, December 5.

Breaux was employed by the sheriff’s office as a corrections officer since June 2018. He was immediately terminated on Wednesday afternoon.

“We believe that the community deserves to know when a member of this agency has been charged with a crime and that this community deserves transparency and accountability,” said Sheriff Wiley. “Further, this type of criminal behavior compromises the safety and security of the Ascension Parish Jail. This deputy will be held accountable in a court of law.”

Breaux was booked into the Ascension Parish Jail and released on a $5,000 bond set by Judge Kliebert.