Travis County, Texas – Amos Nyanway, a corrections officer, was arrested and fired after allegedly smuggling fried chicken wings into the Travis County Correctional Complex for an inmate. The unusual act came to light during an internal investigation by the Security Threat Intelligence Unit, raising serious questions about protocol and staff oversight.
Nyanway, who had joined the sheriff’s office in June 2024, was reassigned pending the investigation. Authorities confirmed that the probe began on August 21, 2025, after suspicions arose regarding contraband entering the facility. Internal investigators meticulously reviewed surveillance footage, staff logs, and inmate interactions.
The investigation determined that Nyanway intentionally bypassed security procedures to deliver fried chicken wings to a specific inmate. While the incident did not result in any physical harm, it represents a serious breach of correctional rules and undermines the integrity of the institution.
On October 14, the sheriff’s office officially terminated Nyanway from his position. The firing followed the findings of the internal probe and recommendations from supervisory staff, who emphasized that such actions could not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Nyanway now faces a Class B misdemeanor charge for contraband. If convicted, he could face jail time, fines, or both. Legal experts note that even seemingly minor violations in correctional facilities are treated with severity because they compromise security and trust.
The case has sparked discussion about oversight in correctional facilities. Officials noted that while no inmate was physically harmed, smuggling food or other contraband could potentially escalate into larger security risks, including fostering favoritism, bribery, or further rule-breaking.
Travis County Sheriff’s Office representatives emphasized the importance of integrity in correctional roles. Officers are entrusted with the safety and security of both staff and inmates, and violations of policy—even for minor items like food—can have significant consequences.
Nyanway’s colleagues expressed surprise at the incident, describing him as a relatively new officer with no prior disciplinary record. The unusual nature of the contraband—the smuggling of chicken wings for cash or favors—has drawn attention from media and community observers alike.
Authorities are using this case as a cautionary example, reminding all staff of the importance of adherence to protocols. The sheriff’s office reinforced training and monitoring procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the legal process moves forward, Nyanway’s case highlights the broader issue of contraband in correctional facilities. Officials and community members alike stress that even small breaches can undermine safety, trust, and the rule of law within institutions designed to maintain order and rehabilitation.
