A New York woman pleaded guilty to distributing synthetic drug-laced papers to inmates in correctional facilities.
Drug Distribution
Maya McIntosh, 33, admitted to producing and selling MDMB-4en-PINACA, a synthetic cannabinoid. She ordered chemicals online and made a liquid version.
She soaked copy paper and envelopes with the drug and sold them on social media. Customers paid her to mail the drug-laced papers to prisoners.
To avoid suspicion, she falsely labeled the envelopes as legal documents from attorneys.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York confirmed her illegal activities.
Effects and Risks
Dr. Andrew Stolbach, a toxicologist, stated the drug does not affect people through touch or air exposure.
Synthetic cannabinoids require smoking to become effective since heat releases the drug into an absorbable state.
If the drug worked through touch, users would simply hold it instead of smoking.
Authorities worry that smuggling synthetic drugs into prisons poses health and security risks.
Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate similar smuggling methods used in correctional facilities.
Legal Consequences
McIntosh pleaded guilty to manufacturing, distributing, and possessing a controlled substance.
She also admitted to unlawful possession and use of a means of identification.
Each drug-related charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
She faces a possible $1 million fine for drug offenses and a $250,000 fine for other charges.
McIntosh could be placed under supervised release for three years to life.
Similar Cases
Authorities have reported multiple cases of drug-laced papers being smuggled into prisons.
In August 2024, a Chicago corrections officer was caught attempting to bring similar materials into a jail.
She received a one-year prison sentence for her role in the smuggling operation.
Law enforcement remains on high alert for new smuggling methods in correctional facilities.
Ongoing Investigations
Prison officials continue to monitor mail for signs of drug-soaked papers.
Authorities are improving detection methods to prevent synthetic drug smuggling.
The Department of Justice urges the public to report suspicious activities related to drug trafficking.
Cases like McIntosh’s highlight the dangers of synthetic drugs and their impact on prison safety.
Law enforcement officials vow to take strict action against those who attempt to exploit legal mail systems.
