Two facing charges in ODOC contraband smuggling investigation
Mar 17, 2025
VINITA, Okla. (KFOR) - According to the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, two people are facing felony charges regarding a contraband smuggling operation at the Northeast Oklahoma Community Corrections Center.
Kenneth Dean. Image courtesy ODOC.
Officials say the investigation began after the
facility's warden filed a report about a suspected contraband introduction involving an inmate named Kenneth Dean. A backpack filled with items like drugs, tobacco, alcohol and cell phones was taken from Dean.
According to the ODOC's Office of the Inspector General, the investigation led agents to Amanda Carter, who they believe helped dean bring the contraband into the facility.
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Carter later admitted to her role during an interview. On January 6, 2025, a probable cause affidavit was submitted, leading to multiple felony warrants for Carter's arrest.
Amanda Carter. Image courtesy ODOC.
Carter was arrested on March 12, 2025, at her home. She's facing the following charges:
Assisting a prisoner to escape (felony)
Conspiracy (felony)
Bringing contraband into a penal institution (felony)
Unlawful use of a communication facility (felony)
Dean is also facing charges, including:
Possession of a cell phone or electronic device in a penal institution
Possession of contraband by an inmate (felony)
Unlawful use of contraband by an inmate (felony)
Unlawful use of a communication facility (felony)
Conspiracy (felony)
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