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Last updated on Saturday, January 19, 2013
(MARTINSVILLE) - A former Martinsville jail corrections officer was fired after police said he committed sexual battery on female inmates at the Morgan County Jail.
Nicholas Tankersley, 21, was charged with battery, official misconduct, theft and battery.
According to the probable cause affidavit, the alleged incidents occurred between Nov. 12, 2012 and Jan. 11, 2013.
Tankersley is accused of telling about a dozen female inmates if they exposed their breasts or stood nude in front of him, he would give them "special favors."
It is alleged Tankersley would give them markers, extra sheets, oranges and ink pens. Authorities said Tankersley allegedly gave one female inmate batteries from the sheriff's department for her radio.
Two inmates reported Tankersley had them perform a "sex show" for him. Additionally, detectives said the former correctional officer asked inmates to perform sexual favors on him when they were released.
According to one inmate, Tankersley, who was delivering toilet paper to the cell, allegedly grabbed and squeezed her breast while she laid in her bed.
Police said several inmates reported it was well known that if you "show your breasts to Tankersley, you get stuff."
Tankersley was brought in for questioning last Tuesday, and allegedly admitted that the inmates showed their breasts to him "too many times to count."
Authorities said he admitted to most of the statements made by the inmates.
He was arrested and transported to the Johnson County Jail.
A public defender was appointed to represent him.
If convicted, Tankersley could receive up to three years in prison on each felony charge and 180 days on the misdemeanor battery charge.
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