SAIPAN — Staff at the Department of Corrections Community Outreach Program facility in Kagman intercepted contraband intended for an outreach participant early Wednesday morning, including methamphetamine, tobacco and unauthorized food items, the department announced.
At approximately 6 a.m. Wednesday, staff seized four cans of Grizzly Red tobacco, iced coffee, a cupcake and methamphetamine before the items could reach the participant. A person of interest has been identified in connection with the incident.
The contraband was turned over to the Department of Public Safety for further investigation. DOC’s Special Investigative Services team is working with DPS and is actively investigating the case.
“We also extend our sincere thanks to our federal partners for their continued collaboration and support in these efforts,” said DOC Commissioner Anthony Torres. “Maintaining the integrity of our community outreach efforts is essential to supporting successful rehabilitation and reintegration. Our staff remain vigilant in detecting and preventing contraband, ensuring that participants focus on positive change, skill-building, and lawful reentry into society.”
Under Public Law 23-07, the Contraband Reform Act of 2023, it is a criminal offense for any person including members of the public to knowingly introduce, convey, possess or attempt to deliver contraband in or from a correctional facility or during outside assignments. Methamphetamine falls under major contraband, a second-degree felony carrying three to five years imprisonment and fines starting at $5,000. Tobacco, unauthorized food and beverages fall under minor contraband or DOC-specific prohibited categories, which carry misdemeanor charges with penalties of 30 days to one year imprisonment and fines starting at $500.
Torres thanked DPS and federal partners including the DEA, HSI, FBI and U.S. Marshals Service for their support. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact NMIDOC or DPS.
