FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 19, 2005

INTERNAL AFFAIRS AGENTS THWART PLAN TO INTRODUCE ILLEGAL DRUGS INTO A STATE PRISON

DYERSBURG, Tenn. - Pursuant to an ongoing investigation of illegal drug introduction into the state prison system, agents of the TDOC Internal Affairs Unit, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Dyersburg Police Department conducted a covert drug delivery to a TDOC correctional officer last night.  The stated intent of this officer was to deliver the illegal drugs to inmates inside the Northwest Correctional Complex in Lake County for sale.

On the evening of August 18, Correctional Officer John Stanley of Lake County, along with civilian Roger Belt of Lake County and a female juvenile met with undercover agents in the parking lot of a local business in Dyersburg.  These individuals requested and received two pounds of marijuana for introduction into the prison.

"This is a clear example of an all out effort by TDOC, TBI and local law enforcement agencies to rid the state prison system of the scourge of illegal drugs," said TDOC Acting Commissioner Gayle Ray.

Stanley, Belt and the female juvenile were arrested without incident in the parking lot by agents.  The 2000 Chevrolet truck operated by Stanley was seized.

The female juvenile was transported to the juvenile detention facility, issued a juvenile appearance citation and released to her parents.  Stanley and Belt are being held at the Dyer County jail.

All three subjects are being charged with possession with intent to sell/deliver and criminal conspiracy to introduce illegal drugs into a correctional facility.

 
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