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JOHNSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) — An extensive cache of contraband, including hundreds of suboxone strips and numerous cell phones, was intercepted at the Northeast Correctional Complex (NECX).
The Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) announced in a press release that correctional officers conducted a search on July 2 after identifying a shipment they deemed suspicious.
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Photo: Contraband seized at Northeast Correctional Complex on July 2. (Courtesy of TDOC) -
Photo: Contraband seized at Northeast Correctional Complex on July 2. (Courtesy of TDOC)
Inside the shipment, officers reportedly found a “significant amount of contraband,” which included:
- Hundreds of suboxone strips and drug-laced paper
- Marijuana
- THC oils
- 50+ pounds of tobacco
- 70+ cellphones and chargers
TDOC Commissioner Frank Strada issued a statement, emphasizing the importance of keeping such contraband out of the state’s prisons.
“The presence of contraband poses a significant risk to prison systems nationwide, impacting the safety of staff and inmates alike,” Strada stated. “The Tennessee Department of Correction is committed to intercepting and reclaiming all types of contraband, collaborating with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure vigorous prosecution of such cases.”
As of Monday, the investigation into where the contraband originated is ongoing. Anyone with information as to where it came from is asked to call the department’s 24-hour tip line at 1-800-TDC-FIND (1-800-832-3463).
NECX Warden Brian Eller commended the correctional officers who discovered the contraband.
“Because of the close observation and attention to detail by our staff, we were able to intercept the contraband and maintain security of the facility and the safety of the staff and inmates,” Eller said.
