Contraband Arrests at Telfair State Prison

As of July 2010, The GDC Office of Professional Standards, in conjunction with local & federal law enforcement partners, have investigated or arrested approximately 871 staff and civilians for introducing contraband into prisons throughout the state.

On October 10, at Telfair State Prison, Visitor Shalon Booker was attempting to enter the facility for visitation. Prior to entering the facility, a Sergeant smelled a strong scent of marijuana. He asked visitor Booker if she would consent to a strip search, she agreed and nothing was found. A search was conducted on Visitor Booker's vehicle. One other adult (Dana Hammond) and two children were found in the vehicle. The two children confessed to Investigator Deal that they were hiding four small red balloons collectively, that contained 27 grams of marijuana in their waistbands. The Investigator confiscated the items.

Booker and Hammond were arrested by Telfair County Sheriff's Department and are being charged with the following: Possession with intent, Crossing a guard line with intent, and two counts of cruelty to children.