TENNESSEE — A Memphis man has been arrested after authorities uncovered an alleged conspiracy to smuggle drugs into the Northeast Correctional Complex, according to the Carter County Sheriff’s Office.
Michael Jerome Flowers was arrested Friday following an investigation that began in May.
Authorities said Flowers is charged with one count of criminal conspiracy, one count of bribery of a public servant, three counts of attempted introduction of contraband into a penal facility, possession of methamphetamine for resale, possession of fentanyl for resale and possession of Schedule III drugs for resale.
Investigators said the case began after an inmate at the Northeast Correctional Complex allegedly contacted a correctional officer by text message and attempted to bribe the officer to bring narcotics into the prison.
The correctional officer reported the communication, prompting an investigation. Authorities said investigators then worked undercover while posing as the correctional officer.
According to the sheriff’s office, Flowers met with investigators Friday and brought approximately 30 grams of methamphetamine, 90 Suboxone strips and 20 M30 pills.
After the exchange took place, authorities arrested Flowers.
The Carter County Sheriff’s Office said additional charges are pending. Flowers is being held at the Carter County Detention Center on a $250,000 bond.
