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Two Inmates Charged for Smuggling Drugs into Kentucky Jail

A view of a correctional facility indicating drug smuggling issues.

Jessamine County, Kentucky, December 9, 2025

Two inmates at Jessamine County Detention Center in Kentucky face additional charges after attempting to smuggle narcotics into the facility. This incident highlights ongoing security challenges within correctional institutions and the importance of stringent measures to prevent contraband. Jessamine County Jailer Jon Sallee emphasized the commitment to thoroughly investigate such incidents and pursue charges vigorously.

Lexington, Kentucky – Two Inmates Face Additional Charges After Smuggling Drugs into Central KY Jail

Two inmates at a central Kentucky jail have been charged with additional offenses after attempting to smuggle drugs into the facility. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining security within correctional institutions.

Details of the Incident

On December 7, 2025, deputies at the Jessamine County Detention Center initiated an investigation into inmates Steven Binkley and Paul Jackson. Both individuals had recently been booked into the facility. During routine intake searches, narcotics were discovered on their persons. As a result, both inmates were charged with promoting contraband. 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 or prohibited items, stating that charges will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law.

Background Context

Smuggling contraband into correctional facilities remains a significant issue, posing security risks and complicating rehabilitation efforts. In recent years, there have been multiple instances of individuals attempting to introduce illegal substances into jails and prisons. For example, in October 2025, a former corrections officer at the Federal Medical Center in Lexington pleaded guilty to federal bribery charges after smuggling tobacco and synthetic marijuana into the facility in exchange for over $18,000. Such cases underscore the persistent challenges faced by correctional institutions in preventing the introduction of contraband.

Implications for Correctional Facilities

The recent incident in Jessamine County serves as a reminder of the continuous efforts required to maintain security within correctional facilities. Authorities are urged to implement and enforce stringent measures to detect and prevent the smuggling of contraband, ensuring the safety of both staff and inmates.

Related Incidents

Similar cases have occurred in Kentucky, highlighting the broader issue of contraband smuggling. In April 2023, a deputy at the Kenton County Detention Center was fired and charged with trafficking fentanyl and promoting contraband after being caught delivering drugs to inmates. Additionally, in March 2022, an EMT at the Henderson County Detention Center was arrested on suspicion of smuggling drugs to inmates. These incidents reflect the ongoing challenges correctional facilities face in preventing the introduction of illegal substances.

Conclusion

The charges against Binkley and Jackson highlight the persistent issue of contraband smuggling in correctional facilities. Continuous vigilance and the implementation of effective security measures are essential to address this problem and maintain the integrity of the correctional system.

FAQ

What were the charges against the two inmates?

Both inmates were charged with promoting contraband. Jackson faces an additional charge of tampering with evidence.

What was discovered during the intake search?

Narcotics were found on the inmates during routine intake searches.

What is the significance of this incident?

This case underscores the ongoing challenges correctional facilities face in preventing the smuggling of contraband, highlighting the need for continuous vigilance and effective security measures.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Location Jessamine County Detention Center, Kentucky
Inmates Involved Steven Binkley and Paul Jackson
Charges Promoting contraband; Jackson also charged with tampering with evidence
Discovery Method Routine intake searches
Authority Statement Jessamine County Jailer Jon Sallee emphasized thorough investigation and pursuit of charges to the fullest extent of the law

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Two Inmates Charged with Smuggling Drugs into Kentucky Jail
Jessamine County Inmates Charged for Smuggling Drugs
Two Inmates Charged with Smuggling Drugs into Jail
Two Inmates Charged with Promoting Contraband in Jessamine County
Inmates Charged with Smuggling Drugs into Kentucky Detention Center
Inmates Charged with Drug Smuggling at Jessamine County Detention Center
Inmates Charged for Smuggling Drugs into Jessamine County Facility
Inmates Charged for Smuggling Drugs into Kentucky Jail
Two Inmates Charged for Smuggling Drugs into Jessamine County Detention Center
Two Inmates Charged with Drug Smuggling in Jessamine County

STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF

The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.

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