Nevada Prison Lieutenant Accused of Inmate Relationship, Forgery

A Nevada prison lieutenant faces serious charges after allegations surfaced of an inappropriate relationship with an inmate at the Florence McClure Women’s Correctional Center in Las Vegas, according to documents.

Lt. Dario Sanchez is accused of three counts of felony oppression under color of office and one additional charge, court documents reveal. The Office of the Inspector General alleges Sanchez developed a relationship with a specific inmate, whose name is redacted in court documents.

According to the Nevada Department of Corrections, the Florence McClure Women’s Correctional Center houses nearly 1,000 female inmates. Investigators claim Sanchez accessed nearly 90 phone calls made by the inmate, a significant amount of time considered a potential abuse of authority.

The inmate reportedly told investigators that Sanchez would “regularly pull her out of her unit” for private conversations in staff offices and even the infirmary’s exam room. Documents allege a meeting last fall where Sanchez kissed the inmate on the cheek and lips. Surveillance footage reportedly captured them entering the exam room together.

The investigation further alleges Sanchez sent letters to the inmate using a fake name and address. Postal investigators traced the stamps’ purchase to a kiosk machine where Sanchez was captured on video.

Confronted by investigators, Sanchez reportedly admitted to writing the letters and discussing “personal matters” with the inmates outside their designated areas. He allegedly claimed the inmate initiated the kiss but admitted to listening to her recorded phone calls. Additionally, Sanchez reportedly attempted to provide money for the inmate’s account through her mother.

Judge Amy Chelini granted Sanchez a recognizance release, meaning he was freed without bail upon arrest. His first court appearance occurred on May 29th in Las Vegas Justice Court. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 28th.

Neither the Department of Corrections nor Sanchez’s attorney have responded to requests for comment as of this time. Las Vegas Metro Police, responsible for Clark County Detention Center where Sanchez was booked, has yet to fulfill a records request for his booking photo.

Credits: 8 News Now