Former NC detention officer arrested after inmate reports sexual assault during transport
A former detention officer in North Carolina is now behind bars after investigators say he abused his position of authority during the transport of a female inmate.
According to officials, the Camden County Sheriff’s Office, working alongside the Currituck County Sheriff’s Office and the Albemarle District Jail, has arrested Carl Steven Cohen, 52, of Perquimans County, in connection with a sexual assault that allegedly occurred while he was on duty.
Investigators say the case dates back to December 2025, when Cohen was employed as a detention officer at the Albemarle District Jail. During that time, he was responsible for transporting a female inmate between the Albemarle District Jail and the Currituck County Jail. Authorities allege that during that transport, the inmate was sexually assaulted.
The alleged victim later reported the incident to the Currituck County Sheriff’s Office, prompting a multi-agency investigation. Cohen has since resigned from his position.
Following what officials described as a comprehensive investigation, the Camden County Sheriff’s Office determined it had jurisdiction and established probable cause to move forward with charges. Cohen is now facing multiple felony charges, including:
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First-Degree Kidnapping
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Second-Degree Forcible Rape
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Sexual Activity by a Custodian
Former NC Detention Officer Arrested
On Friday, January 23, 2026, Cohen was taken into custody by law enforcement. After being served with the warrants, he was transported to the Dare County Detention Center. During his first court appearance on January 26, 2026, a judge ordered that Cohen be held without bond.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
