The Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office received a report on 11/17/2023 that a drone was seen flying a package across the Evans Correctional Prison located on Hwy 9 West. The prison officials with the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC) spotted the drone heading towards Saddle Brook Rd. Upon arrival at the scene, the deputies coordinated with SCDC officials, who informed them that the drone had moved towards the woods behind the prison.
Deputy Hatcher observed a dark-colored SUV leaving the vicinity behind the prison and conducted a lawful traffic stop on the vehicle due to the nature of the call and the vehicle’s proximity to the prison at a late hour. As the deputies approached the vehicle, they noticed a drone in the trunk area of the SUV, prompting them to request additional law enforcement support.
Following an investigation and consultation with SCDC regarding the dropped package, it was confirmed that the occupants of the vehicle were responsible for its delivery. The package contained several items considered contraband in the prison system, including 100 grams of marijuana and 55 grams of methamphetamine. Additionally, a DJI Inspire II drone was confiscated as part of the recovery.
The female driver, Jada Young, was charged with criminal conspiracy as well as introducing contraband into a state facility. The passenger, identified as Dorian Mallory, faced charges for trafficking methamphetamine, which was his third offense, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, criminal conspiracy, and introducing contraband into a state facility.
At a bond hearing conducted later the same day, Young received a $10,000 surety bond, while Mallory received a $175,000 surety bond. The case was investigated by Deputy Hatcher, Cpl. Taylor, and Sgt. Lee of the Night Shift Uniform Patrol Division, with the assistance of Investigator Heffner from the Investigations Division.
The Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office shared images of the confiscated items, including the drugs and the drone connected to the attempted contraband delivery. The law enforcement agency took to Facebook to spread awareness about the incident and engage the community in discussions about the dangers of using drones to transport illegal substances into correctional facilities.
The use of drones to smuggle contraband into correctional facilities has become a growing concern for law enforcement agencies across the country. With advancements in technology, criminals have sought to exploit drones as a means to bypass traditional security measures and transport illicit items into prisons.
The interception of the drone and subsequent arrests of the individuals responsible exemplify law enforcement’s commitment to combatting such activities and maintaining the safety and security of correctional institutions. The collaboration between the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office and the South Carolina Department of Corrections demonstrates the importance of multi-agency efforts in addressing complex criminal activities.
The incident also highlights the sophistication and boldness of criminal operations, as evidenced by the use of advanced equipment such as the DJI Inspire II drone in the attempted contraband delivery. It serves as a reminder of the evolving challenges faced by law enforcement in combating modern criminal enterprises.
The Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office aims to raise awareness about the dangers posed by the use of drones in criminal activities and encourages the public to report any suspicious drone-related incidents to law enforcement. By working together with the community, law enforcement can effectively respond to and prevent similar attempts to compromise the safety and integrity of correctional facilities.
The successful interception and arrests in this case serve as a testament to the dedication and vigilance of law enforcement personnel in safeguarding communities and upholding the rule of law. The continued collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the public is essential in combating emerging threats and ensuring the well-being of society.
