DOJ Charges 12 Individuals in Drone Smuggling Operation

The Department of Justice has announced criminal charges against 12 individuals involved in a drone smuggling operation. This operation was responsible for delivering hazardous contraband to federal prisons across several states. The contraband included drugs, mobile phones, and weapons. The sophistication of the smuggling operation, which managed to deliver contraband to 10 facilities on 38 separate occasions, was highlighted by former federal prosecutor Jim Trusty, who discussed the challenges faced in capturing these drones.

Virginia Prison Interception

Virginia prison officials recently intercepted a package during an attempted drone intrusion at Sussex I State Prison. This package contained contraband valued at approximately $324,000, including a pound of suspected methamphetamine and over a dozen mobile phones. The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) revealed that correctional staff found the suspicious package at around 1:30 a.m. on Monday.

Inside, authorities discovered several items, including 17 mobile phones with charging cables, 20 sheets of paper saturated with an unknown liquid, multiple hex wrenches, USB Wi-Fi adapters, SIM cards, disposable lighters, cigarettes, loose-leaf tobacco, cigars, tattoo ink, perfume, and glue.

Value of Contraband and Investigation

VADOC estimated the total value of the intercepted contraband within the prison environment to be approximately $324,000. Joseph Walters, VADOC Director, emphasized the sophisticated methods used by individuals to smuggle contraband into correctional facilities.

“This investigation serves as an important reminder that sophisticated methods are often used to smuggle drugs and other dangerous contraband into Virginia Department of Corrections facilities,” Walters stated.

Walters acknowledged the vigilant efforts of the staff at Sussex I State Prison to ensure the facility’s safety and security. The dedicated correctional staff and OLES members are committed to intercepting any dangerous contraband to protect corrections team members, incarcerated individuals, probationers, and community residents throughout Virginia.

The Office of Law Enforcement Services (OLES) within VADOC continues to investigate the incident. People with information regarding smuggling attempts into VADOC facilities are encouraged to contact OLES at 540-830-9280.