New Castle – After receiving a tip, the New Castle Correction Facility Internal Affairs Office contacted the Pendleton State Police Post about a civilian employee possibly having a sexual relationship with an inmate. Investigator Scott Jarvis along with prison officials began an investigation.

It was learned that the woman, a mental health care counselor, was employed by CORIZON, a company contracted to provide health care services to the prison. After the investigation was completed, it was turned over to the Henry County Prosecutor for his review.  After his review, a warrant was issued for the suspect’s arrest.

This morning at 11 a.m. the suspect, Elizabeth Covington, age 53, of Muncie, was arrested on a warrant for two counts of Sexual Misconduct with a Detainee, Class “C” Felony, and two counts of Trafficking with an Inmate, Class “A” Misdemeanor.  She was lodged in the Henry County Jail with a bond of $6800.

All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.