Chisago County (trfnews.i234.me)— A startling breach of prison security has come to light as Kristi Lettie Tyler, a 35-year-old corrections officer at the Minnesota Correctional Facility in Rush City, faces serious charges for allegedly attempting to smuggle contraband into the prison. Tyler has been charged with one felony count of introducing contraband into a state correctional facility and one misdemeanor count of unauthorized communication with prisoners. These charges stem from an incident on September 27, 2024, when investigators uncovered her involvement in bringing a cell phone and approximately eight grams of cocaine into the facility.
Investigation Uncovers Smuggling Operation
The investigation began in late September 2024, when authorities monitored inmate phone calls and intercepted conversations suggesting plans to smuggle contraband into the prison. Further scrutiny revealed that the phone number discussed in these calls matched Tyler’s personal number listed in her employment records. Subsequent communications indicated that Tyler coordinated with an inmate to receive and deliver the illicit items.
Discovery and Arrest
On the evening of September 26, 2024, Tyler allegedly communicated directly with an inmate, confirming she was en route to retrieve the contraband. Later that night, she acknowledged receiving the items and planned to bring them into the prison the following day. During an interview with investigators on September 27, 2024, Tyler reportedly waived her rights and admitted to possessing the items. A search of her belongings uncovered a hidden cell phone and four baggies containing a white powdery substance concealed inside a rubber glove. The substance tested positive for cocaine, weighing approximately eight grams.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties
Tyler is not currently in custody but faces a felony charge that carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison. Her next court appearance is scheduled for April 23, 2025.
Did You Know?
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Contraband in Prisons: Smuggling contraband into correctional facilities is a significant issue nationwide, compromising the safety and security of both staff and inmates.
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Cell Phones as Contraband: Unauthorized cell phones in prisons can facilitate criminal activities, including coordinating illegal operations outside the facility.
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Drug Smuggling Penalties: Introducing drugs into a correctional facility is a serious offense, often resulting in severe legal consequences for those involved.
I’m Chris Harper, and I’m reporting for TRF News.