Two former Hospital Galveston correctional officers arrested for alleged sexual misconduct with female inmates

Two former Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) officers, Kenneth McDaniel Jr. and Kamron Kirk, were arrested June 18, 2026, for sexual misconduct involving female inmates at Hospital Galveston. Both face second-degree felony charges for Civil Rights Violation/Improper Sexual Activity with Person in Custody, according to TDCJ officials.

Why were Kenneth McDaniel Jr. and Kamron Kirk arrested?

The TDCJ Office of Inspector General launched a criminal investigation after a female inmate reported she had been sexually assaulted by two officers. This investigation identified McDaniel and Kirk as suspects, according to the agency.

Both men were booked into the Galveston County Jail. TDCJ terminated their employment following the conclusion of an administrative probe.

TDCJ Executive Director Bobby Lumpkin stated the agency has zero tolerance for this misconduct. Lumpkin said the agency will not tolerate people in positions of power using their authority to abuse those in their care.

Did You Know? TDCJ policy specifically prohibits male officers from being alone with individual female inmates and bans all cross-gender unclothed searches.

What are the TDCJ policies regarding inmate safety?

The agency maintains that the security and safety of staff and the incarcerated population is its top priority. According to TDCJ, all sexual assault claims are investigated immediately.

Inspector General Lance Coleman credited the U.S. Marshals Service in Galveston County and local law enforcement partners for their support in making the arrests.

Attorney Dick Deguerin, representing both female inmates, stated that individuals are not sentenced to be tortured and sexually abused regardless of their convictions.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that these arrests highlight the critical tension between official agency policy and actual facility oversight. When second-degree felony charges are filed, it suggests a systemic failure to enforce the existing bans on male officers being alone with female inmates.

What happens next for the accused officers?

The legal process could move toward a trial where the state must prove the second-degree felony charges. If convicted, McDaniel and Kirk may face prison time as mandated by Texas law for civil rights violations in custody.

The victims’ legal representation may seek further accountability or damages. The TDCJ could potentially review its internal monitoring at Hospital Galveston to prevent future policy breaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

When were the officers arrested?
Kenneth McDaniel Jr. and Kamron Kirk were taken into custody on June 18, 2026.

What specific charges were filed?
Both men are charged with Civil Rights Violation/Improper Sexual Activity with Person in Custody, which is a second-degree felony.

What is the current employment status of the suspects?
Both individuals were terminated from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

How can correctional facilities better ensure that safety policies are followed in medical settings?