Alexandria Deputy Tried To Smuggle Narcotics Into Detention Center: Sheriff

ALEXANDRIA, VA — A deputy sheriff has been fired and arrested after the Alexandria Sheriff's Office said she tried to smuggle drugs into the Alexandria Adult Detention Center on Sunday.

Former Deputy Sheriff Amarachukwu W. Igwe attempted to bring narcotics into the Detention Center on April 4 to give to an inmate. Following an investigation, Igwe was taken into custody before any narcotics were delivered to the intended recipient or reached the general population.

Igwe was taken to the Arlington County Detention Facility for processing and subsequently appeared before a magistrate, who issued warrants charging her with these offenses:

• Virginia Code § 18.2-474.1 — Delivery of drugs, firearms, explosives, etc., to prisoners or committed persons
• Virginia Code § 18.2-474.1 — Conspiracy to deliver drugs to prisoners or committed persons
• Virginia Code § 18.2-250 — Drug possession, Schedule III

Sheriff Sean Casey immediately fired Igwe, the department said. She joined the department on July 14, 2025.

“I commend the diligent work of our Investigations, Professionalism & Oversight Section, whose proactive efforts uncovered this criminal conduct before it could jeopardize the safety of our staff or the residents of the Detention Center,” Casey said in a statement. “I have zero tolerance for actions that undermine the security of our facility and those who violate the public trust placed in them will face the full consequences of their actions.”