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A federal jury has convicted Jermaine Sturgis, a former lieutenant correctional officer at the Eastern Correctional Institution (ECI) in Westover, Maryland, of conspiracy to obstruct justice and making false statements to federal investigators. The verdict follows a five-day trial, with Sturgis, 41, of Laurel, Delaware, found guilty for his role in a scheme to conceal evidence of an unlawful assault by another ECI officer on an inmate.
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Evidence presented during the trial indicated that on July 12, 2021, following an incident where a junior officer used excessive force against an inmate, Sturgis and several other officers allegedly conspired to delete a video recording. This recording reportedly captured evidence of the excessive force used and showed the inmate’s injuries. During the subsequent investigation into the incident, Sturgis is also accused of providing false information to both state and federal authorities.
Sturgis faces potential penalties of up to five years in federal prison for each of the two charges: conspiracy to obstruct justice and making false statements. U.S. District Judge Matthew J. Maddox has set the sentencing date for Thursday, April 9, 2026. It is important to note that sentences in federal cases are often less than the maximum penalties, as sentencing judges consider various factors, including the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The investigation and prosecution were a collaborative effort. U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes of the District of Maryland acknowledged the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Baltimore Field Office and the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, who provided assistance. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Aubin and Trial Attorney Anita Channapati from the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division Criminal Section.
Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Maryland.
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