Prison drug bust: Attorney caught passing package to inmate in Michigan jail

Michigan prison staff seized suspected drugs after a lawyer allegedly handed package to inmate.

State police in Michigan are investigating an alleged drug smuggling attempt involving an attorney and an inmate at the Central Michigan Correctional Facility in St. Louis.

The incident took place on Monday, when prison staff observed an attorney pass a package to a prisoner during a legal visit. Officers, supported by intelligence staff from the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC), moved in quickly.

A search of the inmate uncovered what MDOC officials described as a “large amount” of contraband. According to MDOC Director Heidi E. Washington, officers seized 211 strips of paper film suspected to be Suboxone, 68 grams of a brown, waxy substance, and 45 grams of white powder.

Washington praised the swift response by prison staff. “This recovery protected countless individuals from potential illness, overdose, or violence associated with the sale of these drugs or from those under the influence,” she said. “I want to especially commend our officers, whose vigilance and dedication were instrumental in this drug bust. We are proud of them and all the staff who worked together not only to make this operation a success, but for the work they do every day to protect those in our custody, their colleagues, and the people of Michigan.”

After the discovery, state police were called to the prison to take over the investigation. A search of the attorney’s vehicle reportedly revealed more Suboxone strips and an additional quantity of white powder. The investigation into the lawyer’s actions remains ongoing, and authorities have not released the names of either suspect.

Washington confirmed that the prisoner involved is currently undergoing disciplinary proceedings in line with MDOC policy, alongside a formal investigation into the smuggling allegations.

Correctional Facility Administration Deputy Director Jeremy Bush said the case underscores the ongoing challenge of stopping drugs and other banned items from entering state prisons. “As the nature of contraband continues to evolve, the department continues to implement effective strategies to deter and halt such illegal activities,” he explained.

Bush noted that the MDOC has recently introduced new technologies and stricter policies aimed at reducing the risk of contraband entering facilities. This includes the installation of body scanners, package scanners, and systems to verify legal mail — all measures designed to close loopholes often exploited by smugglers.

He added that improved search procedures, enhanced officer training, and greater investment in intelligence gathering have all contributed to recent successes in combating contraband.

Washington said these measures are already making a difference and will continue to be refined as smuggling methods change. “The recent introduction of new technologies and policies will further our fight against these crimes and help save lives,” she said.

The MDOC stressed that it will not release further details while the investigation is active, citing both security and safety concerns.

The Central Michigan Correctional Facility houses male inmates and operates under strict security protocols. However, the alleged smuggling attempt highlights how even high-security measures can be tested by determined offenders — and, in this case, allegedly by someone in a trusted professional role.

The outcome of the investigation could have significant legal consequences for both the inmate and the attorney if the allegations are substantiated.