Jessamine County, December 9, 2025
Two inmates at Jessamine County Detention Center have been charged after attempting to smuggle drugs into the facility. Paul Jackson and Steven Binkley were arrested during routine intake procedures when narcotics were discovered concealed on them. Jackson now faces an additional charge for tampering with evidence as the facility emphasizes its commitment to preventing drug smuggling.
Lexington, KY – Two Inmates Face Additional Charges After Smuggling Drugs into Jessamine County Detention Center
Two inmates at the Jessamine County Detention Center have been charged with promoting contraband after attempting to smuggle drugs into the facility. Paul Jackson, 35, and Steven Binkley, 28, were arrested on December 5, 2025, following an investigation initiated by detention center officials. During intake procedures, deputies discovered narcotics concealed on both individuals. Jackson faces an additional charge of tampering with evidence. Jessamine County Jailer Jon Sallee emphasized the facility’s commitment to thoroughly investigating any attempts to introduce illegal substances and pursuing charges to the fullest extent of the law.
Details of the Arrests
On December 5, 2025, deputies at the Jessamine County Detention Center conducted routine intake procedures for new inmates. During this process, narcotics were found concealed on Paul Jackson and Steven Binkley. Both men were subsequently charged with promoting contraband, a Class D felony in Kentucky. Jackson was also charged with tampering with evidence, a Class D felony, for attempting to destroy or conceal evidence during the investigation. The discovery highlights ongoing efforts to prevent the introduction of illegal substances into correctional facilities.
Background on the Charges
Promoting contraband involves knowingly introducing or attempting to introduce any item into a correctional facility that is prohibited by law or regulation. In Kentucky, this offense is classified as a Class D felony, carrying penalties of one to five years in prison. Tampering with evidence, also a Class D felony, involves altering, destroying, or concealing physical evidence with the intent to impair its availability in an official proceeding or investigation. Both charges are taken seriously within the correctional system to maintain safety and order.
Recent Incidents of Drug Smuggling in Kentucky Jails
This incident is part of a broader pattern of drug smuggling attempts in Kentucky correctional facilities. For example, in October 2025, four individuals were arrested in McCracken County for attempting to smuggle drugs into the local jail. Similarly, in August 2021, a jail guard in Henderson County was arrested for attempting to smuggle drugs into the county lockup. These cases underscore the ongoing challenges faced by correctional facilities in preventing the introduction of contraband and maintaining security.
Community and Legal Implications
The arrest of Jackson and Binkley serves as a reminder of the persistent issue of drug smuggling in correctional facilities. Such activities pose significant risks to the safety of both inmates and staff. The Jessamine County Detention Center’s proactive approach in identifying and addressing these attempts reflects a commitment to upholding the integrity of the correctional system. Legal experts emphasize the importance of strict enforcement of contraband-related laws to deter future incidents and ensure the safety of all individuals within correctional facilities.
Conclusion
The charges against Paul Jackson and Steven Binkley highlight the ongoing efforts to combat drug smuggling in Kentucky’s correctional facilities. The Jessamine County Detention Center’s swift response and thorough investigation demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a secure environment. Continued vigilance and enforcement are essential in addressing the challenges posed by contraband in the state’s jails and prisons.
FAQ
What are the charges against Paul Jackson and Steven Binkley?
Both inmates have been charged with promoting contraband. Paul Jackson faces an additional charge of tampering with evidence.
What is promoting contraband?
Promoting contraband involves knowingly introducing or attempting to introduce prohibited items into a correctional facility. In Kentucky, it is classified as a Class D felony.
What is tampering with evidence?
Tampering with evidence involves altering, destroying, or concealing physical evidence with the intent to impair its availability in an official proceeding or investigation. It is also a Class D felony in Kentucky.
Have there been similar incidents in Kentucky?
Yes, there have been previous incidents, such as the arrest of a jail guard in Henderson County in August 2021 for attempting to smuggle drugs into the county lockup.
What are the penalties for promoting contraband in Kentucky?
Promoting contraband is a Class D felony in Kentucky, carrying penalties of one to five years in prison.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Jessamine County Detention Center, Kentucky |
| Inmates Involved | Paul Jackson (35) and Steven Binkley (28) |
| Charges | Promoting contraband; Jackson also charged with tampering with evidence |
| Discovery Date | December 5, 2025 |
| Facility’s Response | Thorough investigation and pursuit of charges to the fullest extent of the law |
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