Contact With Inmate In Feb. Leads to Jailer Firing, Investigation

Authorities continue to investigate a case involving contact between a now-former Stephens County jailer and an inmate back in February.

Stephens County Sheriff Randy Shirley said it happened on February 12, while he and Chief Deputy Andy Myers were out of town at a Deputy Sheriff Explorers’ event.

Shirley said that a walkie-talkie keyed up and jail supervisors heard talk that caused them to investigate further.

He said that upon further investigation, jail supervisors allegedly caught 28-year-old Michael Edward Curran of Eastanollee kissing a female inmate in what authorities say was a consensual act.

According to the sheriff, the jailer was terminated immediately and charges were put forth.

However, he said that the Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s office is reviewing the case and the specific charges at this time.

Shirley said that the Sheriff’s Office did its job by terminating the jailer and conducting an investigation.

He said his office does not condone such behavior and following stringent hiring practices that are in line with state certification.