Lake County corrections officer arrested and charged with trafficking contraband to inmates

LAKE COUNTY, Ind. (CBS) — A Lake County, Indiana, corrections officer is facing charges for allegedly trafficking cellphones and other contraband for the benefit of inmates, officials say.

According to the Lake County Sheriff's Department, John Hoch, 56, of Dyer, was arrested Friday and faces criminal charges of trafficking and official misconduct.

Officials say the investigation into the three-and-a-half-year employee lasted several months.

“The Sheriff’s Department takes jail traffic seriously,” Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr. said in a statement. “This type of illegal scheme represents a blatant violation of the standards and ethics upheld in our facility by the men and women who work tirelessly to maintain the safety and security of inmates and employees.”

The Sheriff's Department is still investigating the case, including how many people may be involved.