Phoenix jail nurse accused of giving contraband to inmate

PHOENIX (AP) -- Authorities say a nurse who works in the downtown Phoenix jail has been arrested for allegedly giving contraband to an inmate.

Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio says 37-year-old Lytonya Hickbottom was arrested Tuesday.

He says the woman apparently was romantically involved with a maximum-security inmate she met while working in the jail.

Arpaio says several phone calls between the inmate and Hickbottom were monitored.

He says a search of the inmate's cell turned up several naked photos of Hickbottom.

Sheriff's officials say Hickbottom also allegedly posted $100 to the inmate's account.

Hickbottom, of Surprise, works for Correction Health Services.

She didn't have an attorney at her initial court appearance Wednesday and was released on her own recognizance.

Hickbottom is facing an Oct. 20 status conference and Oct. 26 preliminary hearing.