Pine Bluff, AR — Two separate attempts to introduce contraband into Arkansas prisons prompted arrests with assistance from state troopers.
Within a one-month period, Arkansas State Police Troop E assisted the Arkansas Department of Corrections in two incidents involving alleged efforts to smuggle drugs, phones, and other prohibited items into state prison facilities, according to ASP.
The first incident occurred Jan. 10 at the Cummins Unit in Lincoln County. At approximately 11:17 a.m., ADC officials and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office notified Troop E that individuals had allegedly thrown contraband over the prison fence. ADC staff recovered the items, which included marijuana, methamphetamine, K2-soaked paper, and cellular phones.
As correctional officers attempted to stop the suspects, their vehicle became stuck in a nearby field and the occupants fled on foot, authorities said. Troopers responding to the area located one suspect and took the individual into custody without incident at approximately 11:21 a.m., less than 10 minutes after notification. The suspect was transported back to ADC for charging and later held at the Lincoln County Detention Center.
A second incident occurred Feb. 7 at the Tucker Unit in Jefferson County. ADC roving patrol officers observed a suspicious vehicle near farm fields on prison property and were able to block the vehicle a short distance from the prison grounds, detaining two occupants.
The individuals were identified as Kendall Nicole Ezell, 22, and Samuel Pierre Moore Jr., 38, who had recently been released from ADC custody. A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered a Glock pistol, multiple cellular phones, and a backpack containing duct-taped bundles with tobacco, individual bags of marijuana, and additional phones with charging cords.
An ASP Criminal Investigation Division agent responded and assumed the investigation. Both suspects were transported to the W.C. “Dub” Brassell Adult Detention Center and booked on charges related to the simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms.
The incidents may be of particular interest to students and young workers seeking employment in public safety or corrections across southeast Arkansas.
“This partnership will continue to result in swift enforcement action,” ASP Col. Mike Hagar said.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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