A corrections officer at the Refugio County Jail was arrested Wednesday, July 15, for possession of cocaine.

Cheryl A. Rhoades of Refugio turned over 14 grams of cocaine that was concealed in her bosom prior to a pat down by Officer Jennifer Heatherly of the Refugio Police Department, according to Police Chief Chris Brock.

She was charged with a second degree felony and faces a possible sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

“This officer was held to a higher standard because of her status as a correctional officer,” said Sgt. Dean Ochoa, investigating officer. “Hiding behind the badge will not protect anyone who is doing wrong.”

During the traffic stop, a consent to search was given to Ochoa and Lt. Fernando Garcia, investigator.

The white powder field tested positive for cocaine.

“As Texas peace officers or Texas correctional officers, we are held to the same standards,” Garcia said. “We have a code of ethics that we’re sworn to follow and live by. Our code of ethics teaches us to wear the badge of our office as a symbol of public faith and public trust. Unfortunately, this was not the case.”

Capt. George Hernandez, of the jail division, said Rhoades was an “at will employee” and has been terminated.

“If drugs had been found in the vehicle instead of on the officer’s body, she would have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the grand jury,” said Sheriff Robert Bolcik. “She was relieved of her duties because they found the cocaine on her.”

Municipal Judge Gary Bourland set the bond at $7,500. She has since been released from jail.