Woman tried to sneak drugs into prison in her underwear, officials say

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

A woman was arrested after officers at the California State Prison in Lancaster said they caught her attempting to smuggle marijuana and tobacco into the facility in her skirt and underwear.

Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation officials said Tanisha Howard, 42, who was visiting an inmate Saturday, was seen on video surveillance reaching into her skirt to retrieve a black bundle.

Howard then placed the bundle into a bag of popcorn, officials said, and when the inmate grabbed the popcorn, prison officers took them both into custody.

Officials said Howard then told the officers that she had additional marijuana hidden in her underwear. A body search of Howard by female sheriff’s deputies recovered the drugs, they said.

In total, 20 grams of marijuana and 25.4 grams of tobacco were recovered, officials said.

Howard remains behind bars at the Century Regional Detention Facility in Lynwood, held on $20,000 bail, as she awaits charges in the case.

ALSO:

Indictments link Mexican Mafia and street gangs

KFC settles lawsuit over smoking ovens, violations

Poisonous mushrooms claim a fourth victim in Placer County

-- Wesley Lowery

Follow Wesley Lowery on Twitter and Google+.