Former Corrections Officer Charged With Sexual Assault at SCI Cambridge Springs

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A former state corrections officer named James Patrick Morris, 49, of Centerville, Pennsylvania, has been charged with several felony counts of sexual assault following an investigation into incidents at the State Correctional Institution Cambridge Springs, a minimum-security prison for women. The charges include institutional sexual assault, aggravated indecent assault, and indecent exposure, stemming from three separate alleged incidents involving an inmate in July 2025.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of sexual abuse and misconduct within the U.S. prison system, especially the vulnerability of incarcerated individuals to predatory behavior by those in positions of authority. It also raises questions about oversight, training, and accountability measures for corrections officers to prevent such abuses of power.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, the victim reported three separate incidents in July 2025 where Morris allegedly entered her cell and sexually assaulted her, causing an internal injury in one instance. The victim stated she was 'scared, terrified, and felt he was going to kill her.' Investigators reviewed medical records confirming the victim's injuries and shift logs showing Morris was assigned to the victim's unit during the alleged assaults.

• The investigation began in October 2025 after a report involving the Prison Rape Elimination Act.
• The first alleged incident occurred in the early morning hours in July 2025.
• A second alleged incident occurred less than a week later in July 2025.
• The third alleged incident of indecent exposure also occurred in July 2025.

What’s next

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 13 at 3:00 p.m. with Judge Zilhaver presiding, where the judge will decide whether to allow Morris to be released on bail.