Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II, announced today that a corrections officer has been charged with smuggling contraband at the Essex County Correctional Facility, located on Doremus Avenue in Newark, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-6b.
Officials said Officer Keith Peterman, 29, of Newark has been charged with knowingly introducing contraband into the Essex County Correctional Facility, specifically by providing inmates with tobacco products, knowing it is unlawful for inmates to possess such items.
The investigation revealed that Peterman did so in exchange for money officials said.
“The introduction of contraband into the Essex County Correctional Facility creates a serious risk. The defendant jeopardized the safety of his colleagues and the inmates entrusted to his care, custody, and control,” said Assistant Prosecutor Joseph Perez, who is prosecuting the case.
According to county officials, the investigation, which is active and ongoing, was conducted jointly by the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Professional Standards Bureau with the assistance of the Essex County Correctional Facility Internal Affairs Unit.
Peterman was charged by summons and his first court appearance is on March 26, 2021.