Virginia prison officials intercepted an estimated $324,000 worth of contraband, including a significant quantity of methamphetamine and 17 cellphones, following an attempted drone delivery at Sussex I State Prison early Monday morning. The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) reported that staff discovered a suspicious package around 1:30 a.m.
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. The seizure also included multiple hex wrenches, three USB Wi-Fi adapters, two SIM cards, 30 disposable lighters, two cartons of cigarettes, one pound of loose-leaf tobacco, three packs of cigars, and two bottles each of professional-grade tattoo ink, perfume, and glue.
VADOC Director Joseph Walters stated that the incident highlights the sophisticated methods employed by individuals attempting to smuggle contraband into correctional facilities. Walters commended the vigilance of the institutional staff at Sussex I State Prison for ensuring the safety and security of the facility and its occupants.
The VADOC's Office of Law Enforcement Services (OLES) is currently investigating the incident. The agency is seeking information from the public regarding any attempted smuggling into VADOC facilities and has provided a contact number for tips.
This seizure comes as the U.S. Justice Department announced charges against 12 individuals for a sophisticated drone smuggling operation that allegedly delivered contraband to federal prisons across multiple states. Former federal prosecutor Jim Trusty has noted the challenges in intercepting drones used for such purposes, with reports indicating drones were used for 38 deliveries of drugs, cellphones, and weapons to 10 facilities.