by Columbia, S.C. – In a bold and illegal attempt to smuggle contraband into prison, two men have been arrested for allegedly using a drone to deliver drugs to inmates at Kershaw Correctional Institution. Authorities apprehended Pharrell Rashawn Dobson, 21, of Bluffton, and Jaheim Dobson, 19, of Varnville, after a drone loaded with contraband crashed onto the prison yard.
The incident highlights the increasing use of technology for illegal activities within correctional facilities, prompting law enforcement to take swift action to prevent drug trafficking into prisons.
The Drone Smuggling Incident at Kershaw Correctional Institution
Local law enforcement officials responded quickly after receiving a report of an intruder at the correctional facility. Lancaster County Deputies observed a silver Honda Civic departing from a known drone flight area near the prison. Acting on their suspicion, deputies stopped the vehicle on Little Dude Avenue and conducted a thorough search.
- Authorities found a Swell Pro Drone controller in the vehicle, matching the crashed drone at the prison yard.
- The package attached to the drone contained 554 grams of marijuana, a significant quantity of illegal drugs.
This evidence strongly linked the suspects to the drone delivery attempt at Kershaw Correctional Institution.
Legal Charges and Implications
Pharrell Rashawn Dobson and Jaheim Dobson have been formally charged with:
- Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute
- Providing contraband to prisoners
- Criminal conspiracy
These charges underscore the serious nature of the crime and the legal risks involved in smuggling contraband into correctional facilities.
“Using drones to smuggle contraband into prisons is a growing challenge for law enforcement and correctional institutions,” said a local official. “Our quick response prevented this illegal activity from succeeding and ensured the safety of the facility.”
What This Means for Correctional Security and Future Prevention
The use of drones for drug smuggling in prisons is a disturbing trend that authorities nationwide are battling. This incident at Kershaw Correctional Institution serves as a reminder of the evolving methods criminals use and the need for enhanced security measures.
- Correctional facilities may increase drone-detection technologies and surveillance.
- Law enforcement agencies are likely to pursue stricter penalties for drone-based contraband delivery.
- Community awareness and reporting suspicious activity near prisons remain crucial for prevention.
Have you ever witnessed or heard of drones being used in unconventional ways? Share your thoughts on drone security and crime prevention in the comments below.
