Waupun Correctional Institution Warden Randall Hepp was jailed on Wednesday just prior to a news conference discussing investigations into multiple inmate deaths. Hepp, along with eight staff members, has been charged in connection with the deaths of four inmates at the institution.

The investigations, led by Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt, focused on the deaths of Dean Hoffman, Tyshun Lemons, Cameron Williams, and Donald Maier. Dean Hoffman died by suicide after his daughter alleged in a federal lawsuit that prison officials failed to provide adequate mental health care and medications. Tyshun Lemons died of an overdose, Cameron Williams suffered a stroke, and Donald Maier's death was ruled a homicide due to malnutrition and dehydration.

Warden Hepp has been charged with misconduct in public office, while the other eight staff members are facing charges of inmate abuse and misconduct in public office. State Sen. Van Wanggaard indicated that numerous people, including the warden, would be arrested and charged with crimes related to their work at the prison.

Gov. Tony Evers' office has revealed that federal investigators are also looking into a suspected smuggling ring involving prison employees. Meanwhile, Schmidt noted that the county could reopen the investigation if the ongoing internal state probe reveals additional evidence.

The allegations have cast a spotlight on the conditions within Wisconsin's prisons. The Wisconsin Department of Corrections imposed a lockdown last year at multiple state prisons, including Waupun, due to a shortage of guards. In October, Waupun inmates filed a federal lawsuit claiming that the lockdown conditions amounted to cruel and unusual punishment, a case which is still pending.

Additionally, State Sen. Van Wanggaard has suggested that Gov. Tony Evers needs to take responsibility and address the issues in Waupun and Green Bay prisons. The scandal has also seen significant administrative turnover, with at least 20 people under internal investigation. Eight staff members are on administrative leave, and nine others have either been fired or have retired since the probe began a year ago.

In another development, Randall Hepp, who had announced plans to retire at the end of June, will be succeeded by Deputy Warden Brad Mlodzik. This leadership change comes at a critical time for the institution, as both internal and external investigations continue to unfold.

Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt discussed these investigations during the news conference on Wednesday, emphasizing the severity and complexity of the situation. The investigation into Waupun Correctional Institution highlights the broader issues within the state's prison system and adds pressure on both state and federal authorities to ensure accountability and justice.