VIDALIA — A Concordia Parish correctional officer was arrested Monday after prison officials learned the officer smuggled marijuana to give to an inmate.

Alfred James Chest, 24, 410 10th St., Ferriday, was arrested and charged with possession of schedule I drugs, introduction of contraband into a penal institute and malfeasance in office.

Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy David Hedrick said other prison employees saw Chest concealing an unfamiliar package last week.

Hedrick said prison officials reviewed security footage from the prison and saw Chest on video concealing what appeared to be marijuana and later giving it to an inmate.

Deputies questioned Chest about the incident Monday, and Hedrick said Chest confessed to bringing in 10 grams of marijuana, valued at more than $100.

Hedrick said any introduction of contraband would not be tolerated by the sheriff’s office, especially by its own employees.

“We hold our employees to an even higher standard and this type of behavior is unacceptable,” Hedrick said.

Chest remained at the Concordia Parish Jail Tuesday with no bond set.