WASHINGTON — A recent indictment has uncovered a complex conspiracy to smuggle knives, drugs, and cell phones into the D.C. Jail. A corrections officer, several inmates, and outside accomplices are facing serious charges for their roles in bypassing prison security to deliver contraband. The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, along with officials from the FBI and the D.C. Department of Corrections.
Corrections Officer Rashaad Roper, 36, from Gaithersburg, stands at the center of the conspiracy, which aimed to deliver illegal items to inmates who were awaiting trial for serious crimes such as murder and assault with intent to kill. Alongside Roper, four others have been indicted: LaTara Brown, 31, and Kiya Holland, 33, both from Maryland, as well as inmates Darius Robertson, 31, Marcel Vines, 28, and Stefon Freshley, 28.
The group coordinated the smuggling of items, using Tupperware containers hidden inside plastic-wrapped food packages. Brown and Holland, the outside operatives, would deliver these containers to the jail, where Roper or another corrections officer would smuggle them in. Once inside, the contraband was passed to the awaiting inmates, Robertson, Vines, and Freshley.
The list of contraband is lengthy and alarming. During an operation in February, investigators intercepted a bag containing:
- A switchblade knife
- An Apple iPhone
- Marijuana and tobacco
- Gambling dice
- Cigarettes, among other items
In another sweep in July, authorities found hundreds of synthetic drugs, soaked papers, more cell phones, and even more cigarettes. The items were hidden throughout the inmates' cells.
Corrections officer, group charged in smuggling scheme at D.C. Jail
The conspiracy charge alone carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. However, providing or possessing contraband in a prison can lead to up to 20 years behind bars. The individuals involved face serious legal consequences if convicted.
This case is being handled by the FBI's Washington Field Office and the D.C. Department of Corrections Office of Investigative Services, with support from the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General.
While the charges are serious, it's important to remember that an indictment is only an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
