OKEECHOBEE —The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division has concluded a comprehensive investigation into allegations of misconduct involving a former employee at the Everglades Youth Academy, a Level-10 juvenile detention facility in Okeechobee County.

 

On February 5, 2025, Detective S. Casian was conducting a court-authorized search of a confiscated inmate cellphone when investigators uncovered multiple text message exchanges and images between the inmate and Nikkiis Tibbs, a former staff member at the facility. The communications came from three separate phone numbers linked to Tibbs and included conversations of both personal and sexual nature.

 

Further analysis of digital evidence — including photographs, text messages, call logs, and recorded phone conversations — indicated that Tibbs engaged in an inappropriate and illegal sexual relationship with an inmate under her supervision.

 

Detectives also interviewed multiple witnesses and former staff members. One witness reported seeing Tibbs enter a cell alone with the inmate on several occasions. Another stated that Tibbs had been intentionally avoiding former coworkers following her termination.

 

Detective Casian attempted to contact Tibbs for an interview; however, she did not respond. Investigators later learned she had an active warrant out of Hendry County and was believed to be evading law enforcement.

 

As a result of the investigation, a warrant was issued for violation of Florida Statute 944.35(3)(b)(2) — Sexual Misconduct by an Employee of a Contractor-Operated Facility. 

 

Tibbs was subsequently located and arrested by the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office. Her bond was set at $7,500.

 

The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to maintaining the safety, integrity, and well-being of all individuals housed within correctional and youth facilities. 

 

Anyone who abuses a position of authority or trust will be thoroughly investigated and held accountable.