Corrections officer suspected of smuggling contraband into prison arrested after chase

Officer fled Everglades Correctional Institution during vehicle inspection

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A South Florida corrections officer was arrested Thursday morning after she was suspected of smuggling contraband into a state prison.

According to the Florida Department of Corrections, Officer Evelyn Bruton fled the Everglades Correctional Institution as staff attempted to inspect her car at a checkpoint, where police dogs were also present.

Authorities said Bruton's bosses suspected her of smuggling drugs into the all-male prison.

They said said Bruton turned her car around after approaching the checkpoint.

Her bosses and Miami-Dade police chased Bruton's vehicle for about 17 miles. The chase ended just off Florida's Turnpike near Southwest 152nd Street.

Police took Bruton into custody and searched her white Chevrolet for possible evidence.

Some bags could be seen on the front seat, but it's unclear what, if anything, detectives actually found in the vehicle.

Bruton was still wearing her badge and uniform when she was taken into custody.

A statement from the Florida Department of Corrections said the agency "is committed to preventing all avenues of contraband introduction to ensure the secure operation of our correctional institutions."

"The actions of this officer are unacceptable and do not align with the professional standards we hold for all FDC staff," the statement went on to say.


About the Authors:

Terrell Forney joined Local 10 News in October 2005 as a general assignment reporter. He was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, but a desire to escape the harsh winters of the north brought him to South Florida.