Otero County Detention Deputy Arrested on Felony Sexual Misconduct Charges Involving Inmate

Description: Otero County detention deputy Chad Miles Blankenship, 37, was arrested November 11, 2026, on felony sexual misconduct charges involving an inmate in La Junta... Read the Full Arrest Report from the Otero County Sheriff's Office...


Published: 7 hours ago
Byline: SECO News

Otero County Detention Deputy Arrested Following Investigation into Alleged Misconduct

LA JUNTA, COLORADO – The Otero County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest of Chad Miles Blankenship, 37, a detention deputy employed at the Otero County Detention Center, following an investigation into allegations of misconduct involving an inmate.

On November 4, 2026, deputies with the Otero County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Otero County Detention Center regarding a reported assault. During the course of that investigation, deputies received additional information alleging inappropriate conduct involving detention staff and inmates.

Investigators subsequently reviewed detention center surveillance footage and identified an incident that occurred on November 3, 2026, involving Blankenship and an inmate. Based on their review of the footage and other evidence obtained during the investigation, investigators established probable cause for Blankenship’s arrest.

On November 11, 2026, Blankenship was arrested on the following alleged offenses:

  • Unlawful Sexual Conduct by a Peace Officer – Class 4 Felony
  • Sexual Conduct in a Correctional Institution – Class 6 Felony
  • Second-Degree Official Misconduct – Petty Offense
  • Official Oppression – Class 1 Misdemeanor

Blankenship has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation. The criminal investigation and internal administrative process are separate matters.

The Otero County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting the rights, safety, and dignity of individuals in our custody while maintaining the trust and confidence of the community we serve.

All individuals accused of a crime are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Brian Lovato, Sheriff
Otero County Sheriff’s Office
220 E 2nd St, La Junta, CO 81050
(719) 384-5941



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