Jimmy Jenkins/KJZZ

Gabriela Contreras spoke publicly for the first time on May 21, 2019, after leaking footage that triggered an investigation into the Arizona Department of Corrections.

An Arizona Department of Corrections (ADC) employee has been cleared of any wrongdoing after releasing security camera footage that showed unsafe conditions in a state prison. 

Sgt. Ana Gabriela Contreras said she knew she was taking a risk by downloading security camera videos of the Lewis prison and sharing them with the press, but felt she had to expose what she believes are life-threatening security concerns.

After initially disciplining Contreras, ADC announced Thursday it has rescinded all actions taken against her and four other correctional officers who were found to have downloaded and disseminated department videos.

A spokesman for ADC said it rescinded two 40-hour suspensions, two 16-hour suspensions and a letter of reprimand, and the affected employees will be reimbursed for any lost wages.

ADC says the move came after a review in consultation with the Attorney General’s Office and the Department of Administration.