PURDY, Wash. -- Seven corrections officers at the Washington Corrections Center for Women have been reassigned while authorities investigate allegations of sexual misconduct, corrections officials said Wednesday.

An investigation began earlier this year after female inmates at the women's prison in Purdy said they were victims of sexual misconduct that ranged from sexually abusive language to rape.

“I'm sure it's not a happy day for the staff of this institution, and they're not proud that some of their own have been so accused," said Eldon Vail, interim secretary of the Department of Corrections.

The seven officers, including a sergeant, have been reassigned to home duty. They are being paid and have not been suspended, officials said.

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The investigations uncovered incidents of sexual misconduct against four female prisoners dating back to 2005. Outside consultants did the investigations, and there have been no criminal investigations of the allegations.

Sources asking not to be identified told reporter Kevin McCarty the allegations include corrections officers trading sex with female inmates for privileges that may include assignment to work details outside the prison. The allegations also include officers’ taking prisoners to their homes to have sex.

Prison officials would not comment on any specific allegation.

They said the Washington State Patrol will conduct an investigation.

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