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Former South Carolina Federal Correctional Officer Convicted of Bribery, Drug Smuggling, and Tax Fraud

By James Seidel | CC News Network

FLORENCE, S.C. — A former federal correctional officer at FCI Williamsburg has been convicted of multiple charges, including bribery, drug distribution, money laundering, and filing false tax returns, following a federal jury trial.

Angela Crosland, 51, of Elgin, South Carolina, was found guilty after a two-day trial where prosecutors laid out a case detailing how she used her position to smuggle suboxone, methamphetamine, K-2-soaked paper, marijuana, tobacco, food, and other contraband into the federal prison in exchange for money.

A Nine-Month Corruption Scheme

Federal prosecutors presented extensive financial evidence showing that Crosland accepted at least $56,791 in bribes from family members and associates of inmates housed at FCI Williamsburg. The payments, made over a nine-month period, were sent through multiple Cash App accounts controlled by Crosland.

Despite receiving tens of thousands of dollars in illicit income, Crosland failed to report these earnings on her federal tax returns, leading to additional charges of filing false income tax returns.

Government Officials Condemn Corruption

Federal officials underscored the severity of Crosland’s crimes, emphasizing how her actions compromised the safety and integrity of the federal prison system.

“Those who work in public service, especially in law enforcement and corrections, must be held to a higher standard,” said U.S. Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs for the District of South Carolina. “Crosland’s actions damage trust in our prison systems while compromising the safety of Williamsburg FCI’s staff and inmates.”

“Crosland smuggled drugs and other contraband into the federal prison in exchange for tens of thousands of dollars in bribes,” said Eric Fehlman, Special Agent in Charge of the DOJ Office of the Inspector General Southeast Region. “Her corrupt actions jeopardized the safety and security of the entire facility.”

“The IRS is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to provide financial expertise while investigating individuals who engage in corruption, money laundering, and tax fraud,” said Special Agent in Charge Donald “Trey” Eakins of the IRS Criminal Investigation Charlotte Field Office.

Federal Correctional Officer — FCI Williamsburg

What’s Next?

Crosland’s sentencing will be determined by United States District Judge Joseph Dawson III, who will review a pre-sentence report from the U.S. Probation Office before issuing a ruling. She faces significant prison time for her crimes.

Investigation and Prosecution

This case was investigated by the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bill Watkins and Winston Marosek are prosecuting the case.

Stay with CC News Network for updates on this case and other breaking legal news in South Carolina.