On January 15, 2023, the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office reported multiple arrests and charges, including bribery and smuggling, at the Citrus County Jail in Crystal River, Florida.
The charges were filed against several individuals, including a former Citrus County corrections officer, who was arrested on January 12, 2023, at his home in Crystal River. The officer, 35-year-old Joshua James Johnson, was charged with bribery and official misconduct. According to authorities, Johnson accepted bribes in exchange for smuggling contraband into the jail.
The investigation, which began in November 2022, also led to the arrest of several inmates and civilians who were involved in the smuggling scheme. A total of 10 people were charged in connection with the investigation, including 28-year-old Crystal River resident, Brittany Nicole Williams, who was charged with bribery and smuggling.
The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about the smuggling scheme to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, and more charges are expected.
In a separate incident, the Crystal River City Council has proposed a ban on swimming in the city’s canals due to safety concerns. The proposal, which was discussed during a council meeting on January 10, 2023, aims to prevent accidents and reduce liability for the city.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Crystal River
