Seven individuals, including two former correctional officers, have been apprehended in connection with a scheme to smuggle illegal drugs and cell phones into a prison in East Texas using drones. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) reported that over 100 cell phones, as well as significant quantities of methamphetamines, synthetic cannabinoids, and other narcotics, were confiscated at the Mark W. Michael Unit located in Tennessee Colony, Texas.
The investigation, initiated by the TDCJ Board of Criminal Justice Office of Inspector General in January 2026, revealed a coordinated effort to breach prison security. Officials emphasized the recovery of a large cache of contraband during the operation, highlighting the serious risks associated with such illegal activities.
Inspector General Lance Coleman issued a stern warning to those considering smuggling contraband into correctional facilities: “Let this be a clear warning: if you try to smuggle contraband into TDCJ correctional facilities, you will be caught, and you will be held accountable.”
All seven suspects face charges of engaging in organized crime. The individuals include Mari Cazares, a former correctional officer from Dallas; John Pina from Krum; Alyson Wells from Plano; Dalen Bright from Webster; Amber Smith from Missouri City; Joshua Rider from Houston; and Janet Guthrie, a former correctional officer from DeKalb. Each has been booked into various county jails across Texas.
During a search of Cazares’ apartment, authorities discovered 30 pounds of loose tobacco, four cell phones, receipts for additional phones, and multiple packs of Bluetooth earbuds. The investigation also uncovered bags resembling those used by inmates to transport their belongings, further implicating Cazares in the smuggling operation.
TDCJ Executive Director Bobby Lumpkin commented on the seriousness of the situation, stating, “This operation underscores both the risks posed by contraband and the strength of our response. We will remain relentless in our fight to stop illegal narcotics from entering and harming those in our facilities.”
