The Oneida Daily Dispatch
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — The New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Marcy, has confirmed through laboratory analysis the presence of multiple controlled and prohibited substances in connection with an ongoing investigation involving the introduction of contraband into the Mohawk Correctional Facility in Rome.
Subsequent forensic testing conducted by NMS Laboratories identified the substances present on the saturated papers. Laboratory results confirmed the presence of the following compounds:
- AB-CHMINACA: A Schedule I controlled substance.
- Cocaine: A Schedule II controlled substance.
- Ketamine: A Schedule III controlled substance.
- MDMB-4en-PINACA: A synthetic cannabinoid prohibited under New York State regulations.
- Phencyclidine, or PCP: A Schedule I controlled substance.
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Researchers detected these substances using multiple analytical methods, confirming their presence on the materials introduced into the facility.
As a result of this investigation, authorities have charged Shondrea C. Taylor, 53, Syracuse with:
- First-degree introducing dangerous contraband into a prison, a class D felony.
- Second-degree promoting prison contraband, a class A misdemeanor.
- Seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.
- Fifth-degree conspiracy.
On Sunday, April 5 at 12:21 p.m., state police responded to the facility at 6514 State Route 26 following a report that a visitor had introduced suspicious materials during the visitation process. An investigation determined the individual was in possession of an envelope containing multiple pieces of paper believed to be saturated with an unknown substance.
During the investigation, several correction officers who handled the materials began experiencing symptoms consistent with exposure to a hazardous substance. Emergency medical personnel responded to the scene.
Authorities brought three correction officers to Rome Health for evaluation. After treatment, two individuals were pronounced in stable condition. One individual was hospitalized in critical condition. Medical personnel also evaluated two National Guard members who were present at the facility and who reported possible exposure as a precaution.
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Authorities located Taylor shortly after she left the facility and took her into custody without incident. Further investigation revealed that Taylor entered the facility under the pretense of visiting an inmate and attempted to deliver the materials at the direction of an unidentified individual.
The investigation further revealed that the materials were intended for delivery to an incarcerated individual and additional investigative efforts are ongoing to identify other individuals involved in the distribution and introduction of these substances.
During the incident, multiple correction officers reported symptoms consistent with exposure to an unknown substance and were transported for medical evaluation.
While the substances have been identified, investigators, in consultation with the Oneida County District Attorney’s Office, determined that there is insufficient evidence at this time to directly attribute the medical conditions to the substances for the purposes of additional assault-related charges.
This remains an active investigation.
The New York State Police are working in coordination with the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Office of Special Investigations to determine the origin of the substances and any broader criminal network involved.
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