Suwannee correctional officer arrested

Photo of Michael Lindblade provided by Suwannee County Sheriff's Office

LIVE OAK, Fla. – A correctional officer at Suwannee Correctional Institution is accused of selling cigarettes, the synthetic drug K2 and cellphones to inmates, authorities said.

Michael Dale Lindblade, 28, was arrested on charges of official misconduct, unlawful compensation and removal of contraband, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement said Wednesday. 

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Agents began investigating Lindblade earlier this month at the request of the Department of Corrections Office of the Inspector General, FDLE said. Investigators said they discovered that Lindblade was purchasing cigarettes, K2 and cellphones, then selling them to inmates at Suwannee Correctional Institution. 

 “As evidenced by our recent arrests and continued collaboration with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and others, the department has absolutely zero tolerance for staff misconduct, especially that which violates the laws of our state. We will continue to aggressively pursue and take action against those who abuse the trust inherent to their positions," DOC secretary Julie Jones said.

Lindblade was booked into the Suwannee County Jail on a $20,000 bond, FDLE said.