(Fremont County, WY) – County 10 reported yesterday that former Fremont County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) employee Jarrett Vargas is currently facing two felony charges for child abuse and aggravated child abuse, for an alleged incident occurring on October 15th, that resulted in an infant in his care being life-flighted to the Denver Children’s Hospital.
On Friday, December 17th FCSO Sheriff Ryan issued the following press release in regards to the incident:
“In regard to the employment status of Jarrett Vargas who has been charged with felony crimes in Natrona County, Wyoming as reported in recent news articles.
“Jarrett Vargas was hired by the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office and appointed as a Deputy Sheriff in March of 2012. Jarrett Vargas worked in the Detention Facility as a Certified Detention Deputy.
“Jarrett Vargas was never a Patrol Deputy or Certified Wyoming Peace Officer during his employment at the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office. Jarrett Vargas’ employment was terminated six years ago in December of 2015. Wyoming law prohibits the release of additional information concerning his personnel records and departure from the agency.”
According to Natrona County District Court documents filed on December 10th, the following exchange occurred between Vargas and the Detective interviewing him:
“Vargas said that he was an ex-Fremont County Deputy Sheriff. He said that he worked in the jail and then served as a Patrol Deputy.”
Regrettably, multiple news outlets, including County 10, reported aspects of the information Vargas provided Casper law enforcement that was incorrect.
County 10 will note the correct occupation in any future coverage of this incident.
County 10 will continue to provide more information on the case as it becomes available, which can be viewed here.