The State Bureau of Investigation has initiated a formal investigation into the Sampson County prison accused of mistreating prisoners with hot sauce and snakes.

A July letter sent to U.S. District Court by six inmates claimed that prisoners were made to drink and lather themselves with hot sauce, kiss deadly snakes on the mouth and fake sex acts while working on a road crew. The prisoners said they performed these acts in exchange for favors such as food and cigarettes for the chance to work for 70 cents a day.

In the wake of the investigation into the prison, Superintendent Lafayette Hall said he will retire and Lead Correctional Officer Anthony Jackson resigned his position.

Correctional Officer David Jones remains under investigation.