Worker at Broward juvenile facility arrested for having sex with inmate, BSO says
A “care worker” at a Department of Juvenile Justice facility was behind bars in Broward County on Monday after being accused of sexually battering an 18-year-old inmate, according to deputies.
Jess Delgardo, 32, is facing charges of sexual battery and sexual misconduct with an inmate. The victim, deputies say, was an inmate at Pompano Youth Academy, 3090 N. Powerline Rd. The academy is for female inmates, ages 13 to 18, who need mental health or substance abuse services, according to the Department of Juvenile Justice website.
The victim admitted that she was in a sexual relationship with Delgardo, whom the detained children call “Jessie,” according to Delgardo’s arrest report.
“Although the [victim] is 18 years of age, [victim] is in a youthful detention facility, she could not give consent...” deputies said in the report.
The victim said she had a “flirtatious relationship” with Delgardo — and that they communicated in a notebook. Delgardo’s arrest report mentions several sexual statements found in the notebook, including a comment Delgardo wrote about “liking [the victim’s] butt.”
Delgardo confessed, according to the report, although what he said was redacted. He was arrested in the early morning hours at his apartment in Lauderhill.
As of Monday afternoon, Delgardo remained at the Broward Main Jail. His bond was set at $30,000.
Reached by the Miami Herald, the Department of Juvenile Justice said Delgardo was an employee of Rite of Passage Inc., which operates the facility. The department confirmed Delgardo has since been fired.
“The safety of our youth is our top priority. We are cooperating with law enforcement regarding the allegations involving a former employee who has been terminated,” Pompano Youth Academy told the Herald in a statement.
This story was originally published May 18, 2026 at 3:29 PM.
