Former Federal Correctional Officer Pleads Not Guilty to Sex Abuse of 4 Detainees at Loop Facility
Accused of Sexual Abuse of Four Inmates at Metropolitan Correctional Center
A former federal correctional officer accused of sexually abusing four women who were inmates at a downtown correctional center in 2023 has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Brittany Hall’s Plea
Brittany Hall, 31, of Chicago pleaded not guilty to five counts of sexual abuse of a ward and three counts of abusive sexual contact at an arraignment hearing on Thursday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Heather K. McShain, according to Joseph Fitzpatrick, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s office.
Possible Sentencing
If convicted, Hall faces up to 15 years in federal prison for the abuse charges and up to two years for the abusive contact charges, federal officials said in a statement.
Allegations of Abuse
Hall was stationed on the 12th floor of the Metropolitan Correctional Center, 71 W. Van Buren St., where female inmates are held, according to an indictment filed against Hall on Tuesday. In separate instances throughout December 2023, Hall, who was in a position of authority over the inmates, allegedly “made sexual contact” with them by touching their breasts, penetrating them or making oral contact with their genitalia, the court documents stated.
Federal Bureau of Prisons Response
“The Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) strongly condemns all forms of sexually abusive behavior and takes seriously our duty to protect the individuals entrusted in our custody as well as to maintain the safety of correctional employees and the community,” said Donald Murphy, a spokesperson for the Federal Bureau of Prisons in an email. “We have a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse of any kind, and every person has the right to be safe from sexual abuse,” Murphy said in the email.
Court Appearance
Hall, who no longer works for the MCC, is due back in court on March 20 for a status hearing.
Conclusion
The allegations against Hall are serious and disturbing, and if found guilty, she faces significant jail time. The Federal Bureau of Prisons has taken a strong stance against sexual abuse, and it is essential that those in positions of power, like Hall, are held accountable for their actions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the alleged behavior of Brittany Hall?
A: Hall is accused of sexually abusing four female inmates by making sexual contact with them, including touching, penetrating, and oral contact.
Q: What are the potential consequences if Hall is found guilty?
A: Hall faces up to 15 years in federal prison for the abuse charges and up to two years for the abusive contact charges.
Q: What is the response of the Federal Bureau of Prisons to the allegations?
A: The Federal Bureau of Prisons strongly condemns all forms of sexually abusive behavior and has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse.
