A former Northampton County detention officer was relieved of his duties in August and served a warrant Monday for possession of controlled substances on jail premises.

Lieutenant Michael Sledge of the Northampton County Sheriff's Office said this evening a routine sweep of the jail led to the charge against Detention Officer Douglas Davarne Squire, 51, of Roanoke Rapids.

Sledge said in a statement the sweep of the jail was done August 30 in conjunction with the sheriff's office and the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, which deployed one of its dogs.

The dog alerted on a specific lunch box located inside an officer's office.

Sledge found a schedule II painkiller inside the lunch box and obtained warrants on Squire, who was relieved of his duties the same day.

He was served Monday, received a $5,000 unsecured bond and has an October 11 court date in Northampton County.

Sledge this evening could not say whether the painkiller was destined to reach an inmate. "We believe he was involved in some sort of illicit activity but don't want to speculate."

Roanoke Rapids police Chief Chuck Hasty said, "Anytime an agency calls we're going to help our partners in law enforcement."

Sheriff Jack Smith said in the statement he "holds his sheriff's office and personnel to the highest standard and professionalism," and also said, "this kind of incident is not accepted."

He said he is appreciative of the assistance from Roanoke Rapids and "he is committed to removing all illegal drugs in Northampton County."

Sledge said investigation continues.