Six Charged in Organized Exploitation of Disabled Polk County Jail Inmate

On November 11, 2024, Polk County Narcotics Detectives began investigating the exploitation and physical assault of a disabled inmate at the Polk County Jail. The investigation, initiated after a report from the jail captain, revealed a coordinated scheme involving six individuals—five inmates and one accomplice outside the facility.

According to detectives, the group conspired to financially exploit the disabled inmate by coercing him to surrender personal property, including his debit card tied to his Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and disability benefits. The card was handed over to Carrie Jo Wilson, identified as the girlfriend of one of the inmates, who then drained the account. Wilson used the stolen funds for personal purchases and deposited money into the commissary accounts of several inmates involved in the scheme.

The victim was also forced to provide the Personal Identification Number (PIN) for his commissary account, allowing the group to control his funds and access to the jail phone system.

Top: Michael Riggins, David Wayne Clough and Blake McCreight; Bottom: Trevon Mallard, Kenneth Lamar

Following the investigation, 14 felony warrants were issued for the arrest of the six individuals. Those charged include:

1. Michael Allen Riggins

   • Injury to Child/Elderly/Disabled (Felony 3)
   • Exploitation of Child/Elderly/Disabled (Felony 3)
   • Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (Felony 2)

2. David Clough

   • Injury to Child/Elderly/Disabled (Felony 3)
   • Exploitation of Child/Elderly/Disabled (Felony 3)
   • Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (Felony 2)

3. Blake McCreight

   • Injury to Child/Elderly/Disabled (Felony 3)
   • Exploitation of Child/Elderly/Disabled (Felony 3)
   • Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (Felony 2)

4. Trevon Mallard

   • Exploitation of Child/Elderly/Disabled (Felony 3)
   • Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (Felony 2)

5. Kenneth Lamar Lynch

   • Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (Felony 2)

6. Carrie Jo Wilson

   • Exploitation of Child/Elderly/Disabled (Felony 3)
   • Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (Felony 2)

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office emphasized its commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and combating financial exploitation, particularly within the jail system. Detectives stated the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed as more information emerges.