A Bogalusa corrections officer was arrested Wednesday, in reference to alleged criminal sexual contact with an inmate while on duty, according to Maj. Percy Knight of the Bogalusa Police Department.

Knight, the public information officer for the BPD, said that Officer Louis Clark, 61, of Bogalusa has been charged with malfeasance in office — sexual conduct prohibited with persons in the custody and supervision of the Department of Public Safety, as well as the charge of sexual battery. Clark was assigned to the Bogalusa City Jail in 2002, Knight said.

“Warden Scott Adams received a complaint from a female inmate in reference to Officer Clark allegedly having sexual contact with her,” Knight said. “Warden Adams forwarded this information to the Chief’s Office. The Bogalusa Police Department then conducted an investigation, which resulted in the issuance of two warrants for Clark’s arrest.”

Knight said that Clark was placed on administrative leave on Sept. 1, pending an investigation by Internal Affairs.

Bogalusa Mayor Wendy Perrette said in a statement that Clark’s alleged actions were extremely serious.

“I was made aware of this situation by the chief of police and warden,” she said. “These actions violate the values and mission of the city of Bogalusa and its police department; they will not be tolerated. This is an ongoing investigation. Further details will be given at a later date.”

If convicted, each offense carries a maximum of 10 years in prison. The case remains under investigation by the Bogalusa Police Department and will be forwarded to the 22nd Judicial District Court for prosecution, Knight said.