JOHNSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Hundreds of suboxone strips, dozens of cell phones and more were among a large supply of contraband intercepted at Northeast Correctional Complex (NECX).

According to a news release from the Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC), correctional officers searched what they described as a “suspicious shipment” on July 2.

Inside the shipment, officers reportedly found a “significant amount of contraband,” which included:

• Hundreds of suboxone strips and drug-laced paper
• Marijuana
• THC oils
• 50+ pounds of tobacco
• 70+ cellphones and chargers

TDOC Commissioner Frank Strada issued a statement, emphasizing the importance of keeping such contraband out of the state’s prisons.

“The introduction of contraband is a serious threat to prison systems across the country and to the safety of both staff and inmates,” Strada said. “The Tennessee Department of Correction works diligently to intercept and recover all forms of contraband, partnering with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to aggressively prosecute these cases.”

As of Monday, the investigation into where the contraband originated is ongoing. Anyone with information as to where it came from is asked to call the department’s 24-hour tip line at 1-800-TDC-FIND (1-800-832-3463). 

NECX Warden Brian Eller commended the correctional officers who discovered the contraband.

“Because of the close observation and attention to detail by our staff, we were able to intercept the contraband and maintain security of the facility and the safety of the staff and inmates,” Eller said.