The Department of Justice has charged 12 individuals involved in a drone smuggling operation into federal prisons. This operation, spanning multiple states, aimed to introduce contraband such as drugs, weapons, and cell phones.

Former federal prosecutor Jim Trusty detailed the challenges in intercepting drones, which were involved in 38 delivery incidents across 10 prison facilities. These drones were used to bypass traditional security measures, posing a significant risk to prison safety.

In a related incident, Virginia prison officials intercepted a drone-carried package at Sussex I State Prison valued at approximately $324,000. This package included suspected methamphetamine, several cell phones, and other contraband items.

The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) officials discovered the package around 1:30 a.m., containing a one-pound bag of suspected methamphetamine, 17 cell phones with chargers, and papers saturated in an unknown liquid.

Additional items seized included hex wrenches, USB Wi-Fi adapters, SIM cards, disposable lighters, tobacco products, tattoo ink, perfume, and glue.

VADOC Director Joseph Walters emphasized the sophisticated methods used to smuggle contraband into facilities. He commended Sussex I State Prison staff for their vigilance in detecting and intercepting the contraband.

The VADOC investigation into the incident is led by the Office of Law Enforcement Services (OLES). They request anyone with information about smuggling attempts to contact them at 540-830-9280.