Jessamine County, Kentucky, December 9, 2025
Two inmates at the Jessamine County Detention Center have been charged with promoting contraband after narcotics were discovered during their intake process. Paul Jackson, one of the inmates, is also facing an additional charge of tampering with evidence. The facility’s Jailer, Jon Sallee, affirmed their commitment to investigate and prosecute any attempts to smuggle illegal substances into the jail, addressing ongoing issues related to contraband in correctional facilities.
Two Inmates Face Additional Charges After Smuggling Drugs into Central Kentucky Jail
Lexington, Kentucky – Two inmates at the Jessamine County Detention Center have been charged with promoting contraband after attempting to smuggle drugs into the facility. The incident occurred on December 5, 2025, during the intake process when narcotics were discovered on the individuals. In addition to the contraband charges, one of the inmates, Paul Jackson, faces an additional charge of tampering with evidence. Jessamine County Jailer Jon Sallee emphasized the facility’s commitment to fully investigating and prosecuting any attempts to introduce illegal substances or prohibited items into the jail.
Details of the Incident
During the intake process on December 5, 2025, deputies at the Jessamine County Detention Center initiated an investigation into two newly booked inmates, Steven Binkley and Paul Jackson. Both individuals were subjected to a search, which led to the discovery of narcotics. Consequently, both inmates were charged with promoting contraband, while Jackson was also charged with tampering with evidence, indicating an attempt to conceal or destroy evidence related to the contraband.
Facility’s Response
Jessamine County Jailer Jon Sallee addressed the incident, emphasizing the seriousness with which the facility treats such offenses. He stated that any attempt to introduce illegal substances or prohibited items into the facility will be fully investigated, and charges will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law. This statement underscores the facility’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment and deterring future attempts at smuggling contraband.
Background Context
Smuggling contraband into correctional facilities is a significant concern for law enforcement agencies, as it can lead to increased violence, drug abuse, and other security issues within the institutions. In Kentucky, numerous instances of drug smuggling have occurred in jails and prisons. For instance, in October 2025, four individuals were arrested in McCracken County for attempting to smuggle drugs into the McCracken County Jail, facing various charges, including trafficking in controlled substances and promoting contraband. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges faced by correctional facilities in preventing the introduction of illegal substances.
Related Incidents in Kentucky
- McCracken County Jail Drug Smuggling Investigation: In October 2025, four individuals were arrested in McCracken County for attempting to smuggle drugs into the McCracken County Jail, charged with offenses including trafficking in controlled substances and promoting contraband.
- Madison County Drug Bust: In April 2025, Kevin D. Sanders was arrested after authorities seized approximately 2.5 pounds of fentanyl and other drugs, resulting in multiple charges, including aggravated trafficking in a controlled substance.
- Pulaski County Traffic Stops: In August 2025, two men were arrested in separate traffic stops, leading to the seizure of methamphetamine and other drugs, with both men facing multiple drug trafficking charges.
Preventive Measures and Ongoing Efforts
Correctional facilities in Kentucky and across the nation are continually implementing and enhancing security measures to prevent the smuggling of contraband. These include thorough searches during intake, surveillance systems, intelligence gathering, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies. The goal is to maintain a secure environment for both inmates and staff and to deter individuals from attempting to introduce illegal substances into correctional facilities.
Conclusion
The recent charges against two inmates at the Jessamine County Detention Center serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges correctional facilities face in preventing the smuggling of contraband. The facility’s prompt response and commitment to fully investigating and prosecuting such offenses reflect a dedication to maintaining security and safety within the institution. Continued vigilance and effective security measures are essential in addressing this persistent issue.
FAQ
What charges were the inmates facing?
The inmates were charged with promoting contraband. Additionally, one of the inmates, Paul Jackson, faced an additional charge of tampering with evidence.
What is the facility’s response to such incidents?
Jessamine County Jailer Jon Sallee emphasized that any attempt to introduce illegal substances or prohibited items into the facility will be fully investigated, and charges will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law.
Have there been similar incidents in Kentucky?
Yes, there have been several instances of drug smuggling in jails and prisons in Kentucky. For example, in October 2025, four individuals were arrested in McCracken County for attempting to smuggle drugs into the McCracken County Jail.
What measures are being taken to prevent contraband smuggling?
Correctional facilities are implementing measures such as thorough searches during intake, surveillance systems, intelligence gathering, and collaboration with other law enforcement agencies to prevent the smuggling of contraband.
Why is smuggling contraband into correctional facilities a concern?
Smuggling contraband into correctional facilities can lead to increased violence, drug abuse, and other security issues within the institutions, posing risks to both inmates and staff.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | December 5, 2025 |
| Location | Jessamine County Detention Center, Kentucky |
| Charges | Promoting contraband; Paul Jackson also charged with tampering with evidence |
| Facility’s Response | Emphasis on full investigation and prosecution to the fullest extent of the law |
| Related Incidents | McCracken County Jail drug smuggling investigation; Madison County drug bust; Pulaski County traffic stops |
| Preventive Measures | Thorough searches, surveillance, intelligence gathering, collaboration with law enforcement agencies |
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