Charges are expected against a Texas County Jail inmate who brought drugs into the institution through his digestive tract, authorities said.
The suspect was later hospitalized after becoming ill.
On Feb. 10, deputies responded to a report of possible drugs in the jail at the Texas County Justice Center.
Investigating officers determined a 30-year-old male inmate from Licking had brought contraband into the jail and distributed it amongst other inmates and injected some himself. A second male inmate told officers the suspect had brought the goods in via “bullets” in his digestive system (or balloons).
Further investigation determined the suspect was under the influence of a drug, and was having a hard time staying awake and had declining vital signs. He was taken to Texas County Memorial Hospital for treatment of an overdose and remained there until Feb. 12 before being brought back to jail.
A search of several cells revealed that contraband the suspect smuggled in included suboxone strips, which is used to treat opioid use; Klonopin, a medication used to treat anxiety; tobacco and a lighter. A probable cause statement was sent to the county prosecutor’s office.