Denver deputy arrested for allegedly selling vape pen to inmate

The deputy, hired in 2024, now faces misconduct and contraband charges.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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A Denver County sheriff's deputy has been arrested on allegations he brought a vape pen into the Downtown Detention Center for an inmate and arranged payment through CashApp. The deputy, hired in 2024, now faces misconduct and contraband charges while investigators from the Public Integrity Division and Independent Monitor review what happened.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about contraband and misconduct within the Denver jail system, as well as the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures for law enforcement personnel working in detention facilities.

The details

According to reports, the deputy allegedly smuggled a vape pen into the Downtown Detention Center and arranged for payment from the inmate through the CashApp mobile payment service. The deputy, who was hired in 2024, now faces charges related to misconduct and the introduction of contraband into the jail.

  • The deputy was arrested on an unspecified date.

The players

Denver County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency responsible for operating the Downtown Detention Center where the alleged incident occurred.

Public Integrity Division

The division within the Denver County Sheriff's Office that is investigating the deputy's actions.

Independent Monitor

An independent oversight body that is also reviewing the case alongside the Public Integrity Division.

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What’s next

Investigators from the Public Integrity Division and Independent Monitor will continue to review the case and determine if any additional charges or disciplinary actions are warranted against the deputy.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining security and integrity within detention facilities, and the need for robust oversight and accountability measures to prevent misconduct by law enforcement personnel entrusted with the care and custody of incarcerated individuals.