Jail Staffer Accused of Sex with Inmate

(Bedford, Indiana) A 32-year-old former chief matron for the Lawrence County Police Department, Shauna Hawkins, was arrested last week for alleged felony sexual misconduct with a 35-year-old jail inmate, Kevin Edwards, in September and October 2006. Jail staff and other inmates reportedly made the allegation that Hawkins performed oral sex on the inmate.

Hawkins was booked into the Lawrence County Jail and released on $500 bond.

As chief matron, Hawkins oversaw the operation of the jail kitchen.

Tip: Don Morgenstern


[Update 02/13/08]

From Times Mail:

Shauna Hawkins, 33, 502 Younger Road, is scheduled to have a jury trial in early April. She is accused of sexual misconduct, a Class D felony, for reportedly performing oral sex on an inmate at the jail on two occasions.

More later.


[Update 04/13/08]

Thirty-three-year-old Shauna Hawkins was found guilty by a Lawrence County jury of sexual misconduct with an inmate.

"We're disappointed, not happy," defense attorney Stephen Oliver said. "We'll see where it goes from here."

Lawrence County Prosecutor Michelle Woodward said Hawkins could remain free on the initial bond until her sentencing hearing; no date has been set.

Woodward said the case was difficult because it involved a sex crime with a witness who is a jailed inmate. That resulted in testimony from jail officers and inmates.

In closing arguments, Woodward recapped the witnesses' testimony and said it proved that Hawkins twice performed a sex act on inmate Kevin Edwards.

Earlier Thursday, Edwards testified against Hawkins.

So, we wait for sentencing.