Troopers with Troop E of the Arkansas State Police, based in Pine Bluff, assisted the Arkansas Department of Corrections in two separate incidents involving attempts to introduce contraband into Arkansas prison facilities within a one-month period.
The first incident occurred on Jan. 10, 2026, at the Cummins Unit in Lincoln County. At approximately 11:17 a.m., Troop E was notified by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and ADC officials that individuals had thrown contraband over the prison fence.
ADC staff secured the items, which included marijuana, methamphetamine, K2-soaked paper, and cellular phones. As correctional officers attempted to stop the suspects, their vehicle became stuck in a nearby field, and the occupants fled on foot.
Troopers in the area responded immediately, and one suspect was located and taken into custody without incident at approximately 11:21 a.m., less than 10 minutes after notification. The suspect was transported back to ADC for charging and later held at the Lincoln County Detention Center.
A second incident occurred on the evening of Feb. 7, 2026, at the Tucker Unit in Jefferson County. ADC roving patrol officers observed a suspicious vehicle near farm fields on prison property. ADC staff were able to block the vehicle a short distance from prison grounds and detained two occupants.
The individuals were identified as Kendall Nicole Ezell, 22, and Samuel Pierre Moore Jr., 38. Authorities said Moore had recently been released from ADC custody.
A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a Glock pistol, multiple cellular phones, and a backpack containing bundles wrapped in duct tape. The bundles were found to contain tobacco, individual bags of marijuana, and additional cellular phones with charging cords. An agent with the ASP Criminal Investigation Division responded and assumed the on-scene investigation.
Both suspects were transported to the W.C. “Dub” Brassell Adult Detention Center and booked on charges related to the simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms.
“The partnership between ADC and ASP is strong and will continue to result in swift enforcement action,” said Mike Hagar. “ASP troopers statewide will continue to support correctional operations and assist in maintaining the security of Arkansas prison facilities.”
