The vast majority of men and women who work in law enforcement and corrections are honest and dedicated to their mission.

We thank these brave officers for the work they do every day to keep our homes, schools and communities safe.

However, sometimes that trust can be broken. Unfortunately, that rare occurrence happened in Wilcox County this week when a corrections officer was arrested for allegedly trying to bring drugs into the jail in Camden.

Alcohol, drugs and other contraband are a problem correctional officers battle every day. It causes incredible harm and risk inside prisons.

To catch one of their own trying to smuggle drugs inside must be incredibly frustrating for fellow officers.

The jailer in questioned has been charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana.

We are glad to see the quick response by the Wilcox County Sheriff’s Office, the Fourth Circuit Drug Task Force and District Attorney Michael Jackson.

The accused deserves a fair trial, but, if convicted, he needs to be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. The news should also send a warning to others who have considered crossing that line and violating the public’s trust. It isn’t worth it.

As District Attorney Michael Jackson told the Times-Journal this past week, “It doesn’t matter who you are. If you committee a crime, you are going to have to do the time.”