Samuel Brandon Smith, a 37-year-old correctional officer from Ocala, Florida, has pleaded guilty to charges of bribery and introducing contraband into a federal prison. Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announced the plea on March 4, 2025. Smith could face up to 15 years in prison for the bribery charge and an additional five years for providing contraband. A sentencing date has not been determined.
Court records reveal that Smith worked at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Coleman) in Sumter County under the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Between December 18, 2023, and September 4, 2024, he accepted $43,901 in bribes to smuggle illegal items into the facility for inmates.
On September 4, 2024, BOP staff intercepted Smith as he arrived at work with over half a kilogram of marijuana and approximately 90 grams of THC-laden substances concealed in his duty vest. The intention was to distribute these items within the prison in exchange for money.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Justice - Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson is prosecuting the case.