November 10, 2026
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Department of Corrections Officers at Carson City Correctional Facility uncovered a significant cache of contraband hidden inside a modified personal property storage box belonging to an incarcerated individual. Multiple false compartments contained electronic devices, drug paraphernalia, weapons, and other prohibited items. The implicated individual is currently incarcerated for two counts of first degree homicide.
The discovery occurred during routine cell searches when an officer with nearly 30 years of experience noticed a false bottom in the storage box. Further inspection revealed three additional concealed compartments. Items recovered included three contraband cell phones, materials used to trade or consume illegal drugs, prisoner made weapons, several modified tablets and tablet batteries, approximately 50 electronic cords and adaptors, tattoo needles, and hand tools such as screwdrivers.
“I am grateful for the diligence and professionalism of our officers at Carson City,” said Deputy Director Jeremy Bush. “Comprehensive searches protect staff, incarcerated individuals, and the public from the dangers posed by contraband devices, weapons, and substances.”
The department’s Safe Prisons Initiative continues to strengthen contraband prevention through enhanced mail screening procedures, warehouse package scanners, and increased entry point security for staff and visitors.
On November 19, the FCC will vote on final rules that would allow state correctional agencies to jam the signal of contraband cell phones in prisons. Contraband communications devices can facilitate criminal activity; including coordinating violence, arranging drug deliveries, and harassing victims.
“Curbing the use of contraband cell phones has becoming increasingly challenging for correctional facilities nationwide,” said Director Heidi E. Washington. “The department supports the use of signal jamming as a common-sense, cost-effective solution to stopping contraband cell phones from being used to commit crimes. Disabling the connectivity of these items prevents further harm inside our facilities and harm Michigan communities.”
In 2025, MDOC and Attorney General Dana Nessel joined a multi-state coalition calling for the allowance of cell phone jamming systems to be used in prisons. On October 28, 2026, FCC Chair Brendan Carr announced the commission’s upcoming vote and publicly supported the technology’s use.
The storage box with the false bottom removed, illustrating how it was constructed to hide contraband.
Cell phones found in the storage box compartments.
Cell phone accessories, a weapon made from scissors, tattoo needles, and other items found in the modified box.
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