EASTVILLE — Two former correctional officers at the Eastern Shore Regional Jail on Wednesday pleaded guilty to having sex with a woman incarcerated there.Wayne Shrieves, 47, of Melfa, and Leston Wright, 23, of Exmore, face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500, either or both. They likely will be sentenced in the next term of court after a presentencing report is complete.
Shrieves and Wright remain free on $7,500 bond each.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Bruce Jones said the inmate and the officers had conflicting reports on what precipitated the sexual encounters.
“She did not allege any force,” he said of the victim.
Each of the officers admitted a sexual relationship with the woman.
The charge against Shrieves alleges the offense took place at least once between Nov. 17, 2009, and Jan. 13. Wright is charged with one offense on Feb. 9.
Sheriff Jack Robbins began an investigation after receiving allegations against the two deputies.
The investigation revealed evidence of improper sexual conduct with the woman. Both were fired and were indicted in March by a grand jury.
Judge Glen A. Tyler accepted in Northampton Circuit Court the guilty pleas of having carnal knowledge of a prisoner.
The regional jail, a joint venture between Accomack and Northampton counties, opened in 2007. Both deputies were trained and certified by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.
