SWANNANOA, N.C. (828newsNOW) — James Allen Mathes, 66, a former officer at Western Correctional Center for Women in Swannanoa, was arrested by Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office detectives after an investigation revealed a relationship between Mathes and a detainee at WCCW.

Mathes, who previously served as a Department of Adult Correction Officer, was arrested on Wednesday, May 27 and charged with Felony Sexual Act by Government/Private Institution Employee.

According to a BCSO press release, the investigation was spurred by a Prison Rape Elimination Act complaint to WCCW administrators.

“The Prison Rape Elimination Act is a federal law enacted in 2003 to prevent, detect and respond to sexual abuse and harassment in correctional facilities,” explained District 1 Captain Dustan Auldredge. “It enforces a ‘zero tolerance’ standard across adult and juvenile systems, mandating confidential reporting mechanisms, thorough investigations and protection from retaliation. We appreciate the Department of Adult Correction’s collaboration with us on this case.”

Department of Adult Correction Secretary Leslie Dismukes weighed in on the case as well, stating “there is zero tolerance in our agency for staff who behave inappropriately with offenders in our custody. We are grateful to the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office for their cooperation in this investigation.”

According to the BCSO inmate database, Mathes is currently being held at the Buncombe County Detention Facility on a $50,000 secured bond. Mathes’ court date is scheduled for June 18, 2026.