Drone Incursion at Virginia Prison Results in Seizure of $324,000 in Contraband

<p>Virginia prison officials intercepted a package containing an estimated $324,000 worth of contraband, including a pound of suspected methamphetamine and more than a dozen cellphones, following an attempted drone incursion at Sussex I State Prison, authorities reported.</p><p>The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) stated that corrections staff discovered the "suspicious package" at approximately 1:30 a.m. on Monday.</p><p>Inside the package, officials found a one-pound bag of suspected methamphetamine, 17 cellphones with charging cables, and 20 sheets of paper that appeared to be saturated with an unknown liquid.</p><p>Additionally, the agency seized multiple hex wrenches, three USB Wi-Fi adapters, and two SIM cards.</p><p>Other items included 30 disposable lighters, two cartons of cigarettes, one pound of loose-leaf tobacco, three packs of cigars, two bottles of professional-grade tattoo ink, two bottles of perfume, and two bottles of glue.</p><p>VADOC estimated the total value of the contraband at roughly $324,000.</p><p>VADOC Director Joseph Walters indicated that the seizure highlighted the sophisticated methods used to smuggle contraband into correctional facilities.</p><p>"This investigation is an important reminder that some people will use sophisticated methods in an attempt to smuggle drugs and other dangerous contraband into Virginia Department of Corrections facilities," Walters stated. He expressed gratitude to the staff at Sussex I State Prison for their vigilance in maintaining safety and security.</p><p>Walters added, "Our dedicated correctional staff and OLES members stand ready to intercept any dangerous contraband that individuals may attempt to introduce into correctional settings to ensure the safety and security of our dedicated corrections team members, of incarcerated individuals in our custody, of probationers, and of people in communities all across the Commonwealth of Virginia."</p><p>The incident is currently under investigation by VADOC's Office of Law Enforcement Services (OLES). Anyone with information about attempted smuggling into a VADOC facility is encouraged to contact OLES at 540-830-9280.</p>