AUGUSTA, Ga. () – The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office revealed on Monday that a deputy has been dismissed from duty and taken into custody following a detailed investigation.

On October 20, officials from the sheriff’s office reported that Diana Santiago, who joined the RCSO in May 2020, was summoned for interrogation related to a criminal probe at around 3:45 p.m.

Santiago now faces charges including Violation of Oath of Office, Conspiracy to Purchase or Possess a Controlled Substance, and Unlawful Street Gang Activity, leading to her booking at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center.

The investigation is still underway, according to the sheriff’s office.

Sheriff Eugene Brantley commented on Santiago’s arrest and immediate dismissal with this statement:

“Engaging in criminal behavior or actions that betray public trust will not be tolerated within our ranks. Most of our deputies perform their duties with honor, tirelessly working to protect and serve the people of Richmond County. I applaud the investigators for their professionalism and thoroughness in this case. Ensuring accountability starts from within, and we are committed to taking every necessary measure to maintain the integrity of our office and the trust of our community.”