Athens detention officer arrested after ‘inappropriate relationship’ with inmate, sheriff says

CLARKE COUNTY, Ga — A Clarke County detention officer has been arrested after having an ‘inappropriate relationship with an inmate, the sheriff’s office said.

Karen Amaya turned herself in to the Athens-Clarke County Jail around 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

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The sheriff’s office said an investigation determined that Amaya violated her Oath of Office. As a result, officials charged Amaya with violation of oath of office and fired her.

“The Sheriff’s Office has a sworn duty to uphold the law. The trust of the public we serve is critical to that mission. I will not tolerate conduct that damages that trust,” Sheriff John Q. Williams said.

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Amaya was hired on March 9, 2021, as a detention officer and received her certification as a jailer on April 22, 2022, deputies said.

Amaya was placed on administrative leave as of Oct. 12 and was fired on Monday, according to deputies.

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