Virginia Prison Foils Suspected Drone Drop, Seizes $324,000 In Contraband
Staff at Sussex I State Prison in Virginia intercepted a suspected drone drop around 1:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 24, 2026, and seized about $324,000 in contraband.[1]
The package held an estimated $324,000 in contraband at prison value, including a one-pound bag of suspected methamphetamine and 17 cellphones with charging cables.[1] Officials also recovered 20 sheets of paper saturated with an unknown liquid, 30 disposable lighters, tobacco, tattoo ink, perfume and glue.[1] They also found hex wrenches, USB Wi-Fi adapters and SIM cards, and the Virginia Department of Corrections' Office of Law Enforcement Services is investigating and has publicized a phone number for tips.[1]
State officials described the episode as an attempted drone incursion that prompted staff to check the grounds and recover the suspicious package.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- Around 1:30 a.m. Monday, August 24, 2026, staff at Sussex I State Prison in Virginia discovered a suspicious package following an attempted drone incursion
- The package contained an estimated $324,000 in contraband at prison value, including a one-pound bag of suspected methamphetamine and 17 cellphones with charging cables
- Other seized items included 20 sheets of paper saturated with an unknown liquid, 30 disposable lighters, tobacco products, tattoo ink, perfume, glue, hex wrenches, USB Wi-Fi adapters and SIM cards
- VADOC’s Office of Law Enforcement Services is investigating the smuggling attempt and publicized a phone number for tips
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