Barnstable County Sheriff Sentences Ex-Deputy After Indictment

FALMOUTH – The Barnstable County sheriff is taking a tough stance, denouncing the alleged actions of a correctional officer facing charges of assault and witness intimidation related to an inmate.

Deputy Gregory Djzoen was arraigned in Falmouth District Court and arrested upon referral from the Sheriff's Office.

In a statement, Sheriff Donna Buckley said she strongly condemns his actions and that the office is dedicated to corrections, rehabilitation and treatment, and the safety of those in its custody.

“I am here today to be accountable, to be transparent and to state clearly and definitively that violence and intimidation have no place in the Barnstable County Correctional Facility,” she said in the communicated.

The sheriff's office opened an internal investigation in conjunction with the one being conducted by state police.

Here is the full version of the desktop:

On June 10, Barnstable County Sheriff Donna D. Buckley attended Deputy Gregory Djaoen's arraignment in Falmouth District Court, to oppose the alleged actions and show support for the rest of the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office personnel.

“I condemn in the strongest possible terms the acts of violence and intimidation that are alleged here today,” Sheriff Buckley said. “While the mission of the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office is correctional, rehabilitation and treatment, the foundation of that mission is ensuring the safety of those in our custody – as well as our courageous and dedicated staff. This is our most solemn responsibility.

On June 7, following a referral from the sheriff's office, state police assigned to the Cape and Islands District Attorney's Office arrested Djaoen on two counts of battery, battery with a weapon dangerous and intimidating a witness. The alleged victim in these charges was an individual in the care and custody of the Barnstable County Correctional Facility.

“When one of our own violates our obligations, it puts everyone connected to the organization at risk,” Buckley said. “The people in our care deserve a safe and supportive facility, and our employees deserve to come to work without fear that one of their own will jeopardize their careers and safety.”

“I am here today to be accountable, to be transparent, and to state clearly and definitively that violence and intimidation have no place in the Barnstable County Correctional Facility,” she continued.

“I understand and honor the fact that the defendant is innocent until proven guilty. However, as an employer we also have an administrative process and system that operates alongside the court system. As such, I have seen enough to immediately remove Deputy Djaoen from the facility and initiate a thorough and exhaustive investigation into the allegations. I am committed to sharing the results of our investigation with the public.

“I am committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, accountability and honor at the Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office,” Buckley concluded.

Judge Lisa F. Edmonds continued Djaoen's criminal case until August 6.