FORMER MONROE CORRECTIONS OFFICER IN COURT FOR CONTRABAND CHARGES
In Monroe County, Tennessee, former corrections officer Joshua Duncan appeared in court on Monday regarding his alleged involvement in a contraband scheme at the Monroe County Jail.
Duncan, who was fired and arrested following a June investigation triggered by the discovery of Suboxone hidden inside a Bible given to the jail’s transition coordinator, did not enter a plea and was ordered to obtain a lawyer before his next hearing on January 26, 2026. He remains in jail without bond.
Sheriff’s office public information officer Sue Pettingill emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for such violations, noting that contraband issues are common in jails nationwide but that offenders, including staff, will face immediate consequences to deter future incidents. 10th District Attorney General Stephen Hatchett described the case as part of broader efforts to address community concerns, assuring a thorough legal process despite calls for speed, and vowed that no infractions will be overlooked under his administration regardless of an individual’s status or connections.
Both officials stressed their commitment to accountability and restoring trust.
