Taggart Arraigned On 23-Count Indictment

Rockland County Correction Officer Christopher Taggart, accused of bringing alcohol into the jail and having inappropriate relationships with female minority inmates including sexual harrassment and intimidation, was arraigned Tuesday on a 23-count indictment.

It charges the New City resident with two counts of promoting prison contraband in the first degree, a class D Felony, and 21 counts of official misconduct, each a class A Misdemeanor.

Taggart, 39, appeared Tuesday before the Honorable Larry Schwartz with his attorney Kevin Conway, who entered a not guilty plea. Judge Schwartz released Taggart on his own recognizance with specified conditions to which he must adhere.

The alleged wrongdoing took place between Dec. 29 and Jan. 25, according to the indictment.

"A defense attorney notified my office that her client was a victim of intimidation, misconduct, and sexual harassment which prompted this investigation," Rockland District Attorney Thomas Walsh said in a statement July 31. "We can't allow a systemic issue of female minorities being mistreated in our jails. My office has worked diligently to ensure that ALL of our residents, whether incarcerated or not, are treated fairly and have their rights protected. The courage of these females who came forward to report this sexual harassment cannot be understated. They took a stand against individuals who were in a position of authority and have opened themselves up to further harassment and intimidation. The Rockland County District Attorney's Office will insure that this will not happen and vigorously prosecute anyone who dares to cross that line."

Fellow Corrections Officer John Kezek, 35, of Stony Point, is due in court Wednesday. He is accused of sexually harassing more than one female minority inmate and faces five counts of Official Misconduct.

SEE: 2 Rockland Corrections Officers To Be Arraigned