WASHINGTON — A single breach inside a federal prison can change everything.
That was the warning from the Bureau of Prisons Director William K. Marshall III, who says staff are confronting a steady stream of drugs, weapons and drone drops.
“What happens when a firearm is introduced into one of our institutions? It is a scenario no one wants to contemplate, yet it is the reality every correctional leader across the country fears because we know it is not a question of if, but when,” Marshall said in a Feb. 17 video.
By the numbers
Since taking office in April 2025, Marshall said staff have deployed Narcan in more than 500 apparent overdose incidents.
Among the substances recovered: fentanyl, methamphetamine, marijuana, liquid-soaked papers, Suboxone strips, amphetamines, mushrooms and vapes.
Marshall also cited broader bureau figures highlighting the scope of contraband intercepted across federal institutions, though he did not specify the timeframe for those totals.
The numbers include:
- 228 attempted drone drops intercepted
- Nearly 17,000 cell phones recovered
- More than 4,300 weapons seized
- Methamphetamine confiscated in 668 instances, totaling more than 20 kilograms (nearly 50 pounds)
- 260 staff investigations conducted
- 231 visitors stopped before introducing contraband
“These numbers represent real threats stopped by real people,” the director said. “But for every attempt we catch, others are still trying.”
Drone drops and perimeter breaches
The tactics are becoming more sophisticated.
At FCI Fort Dix, staff intercepted a drone drop carrying a 46-pound laundry bag filled with contraband.
At FCC Hazelton, inspectors discovered more than 5 ounces of THC wax, 300 Suboxone strips and 14 cell phones hidden inside shipment bins during a routine delivery check.
At FCC Beaumont, recreation staff spotted two individuals outside the secure perimeter throwing packages onto the yard. Mobile patrol units pursued the suspects and recovered 26 packages containing cell phones, vapes, chargers, tobacco and tattoo equipment.
In another case, an officer was reported to be planning to provide marijuana and THC gummies to an inmate. Tobacco was later found concealed beneath the officer’s stab-resistant vest.
“What happens when a firearm is introduced into one of our institutions?” Marshall said. “It is a scenario no one wants to contemplate.”
Counter-drone funding reduced
Stopping contraband at this scale requires staffing, training and technology — particularly as drones become more common.
In 2021, the Bureau received dedicated funding for its counter-drone program. Funding levels later shifted as other operational priorities took precedence.
In 2026, approximately $900,000 has been allocated to support the program — enough to maintain minimum coverage, but not enough to fully restore its intended capabilities, according to Marshall.
“I will advocate for the resources needed to ensure this program receives the priority it deserves,” Marshall said.
Prosecutions expanding
The Bureau is also leaning on federal prosecutors.
Marshall acknowledged support from President Donald Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche and the Department of Justice. U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide are prosecuting visitors, staff members and inmates who attempt to introduce contraband into federal facilities.
“This unified approach sends a clear message,” the director said. “Criminal activity in or around federal prisons will not be tolerated.”
At its core, the message was about protection — for correctional staff, inmates and the public.
“To the dedicated men and women of the Bureau, thank you,” the director said. “Your vigilance and professionalism protect our institutions and the communities we serve.”
