VIDALIA — A former Concordia Parish work release corrections officer pleaded not guilty Wednesday to malfeasance in office.

William Austin, 27, 4226 U.S. 84, Vidalia, was arrested in April for allegedly selling contraband to inmates, said Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office public information officer Vernon Stevens.

Stevens said Austin reportedly sold items including cigarettes and handheld electronic devices to the inmates.

Austin, represented by attorney William Yarbrough, declined an offer of one year in the Louisiana Department of Corrections system from District Attorney Brad Burget.

Out on bond, Austin was ordered to appear again in court at 9 a.m. July 13.