Last week, Drug Task Force detectives of the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office received a call that set into motion a successful operation targeting the smuggling of illegal narcotics into Rayburn Correctional Center (RCC). The Rayburn Correctional Center contacted the Drug Task Force to share vital information regarding an ongoing investigation within the prison.
Ao official with RCC told DTF detectives that an inmate, Carlos Alcerreca Vargas, was suspected of orchestrating the smuggling of illegal narcotics into the prison. Inmate Vargas had allegedly attempted to coerce a Rayburn officer into participating in this illegal activity by promising financial compensation. RCC sought the assistance of the WPSO Drug Task Force to lead the investigation.
On November 3 a joint effort between detectives from the Washington Parish Drug Task Force and RCC resulted in a covert undercover operation. The operation was designed to apprehend individuals involved in the smuggling of illegal narcotics into the prison system.
During the operation, a Drug Task Force agent assumed the role of a corrupt Rayburn Correctional Officer and engaged in conversations with an individual identified as Sherman Ray Wilder, age 49,of Marrero, Louisiana. It was revealed that an illegal narcotics transaction was planned, and a meeting was arranged at the Sportsman Inn in Bogalusa.
RAYBURN investigators monitored inmate communications inside the prison, gathering intelligence that guided the operation. As the operation unfolded, it was agreed that Sherman Wilder would bring the illegal narcotics to the Sportsman Inn, along with $2,000 in cash as payment to the supposedly corrupt officer for smuggling the drugs into the prison.
Later that same day, Sherman Wilder arrived at the Sportsman Inn, where law enforcement agents took him into custody.
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Upon searching Wilder, officers discovered 2.6 ounces of Meth, 4 paper sheets of synthetic Mojo, and $2,474.00 in cash.
Sheriff Randy Seal of the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office commended the collaboration between the Rayburn Correctional Center and the Washington Parish Drug Task Force. "This operation represents the dedication and commitment of our law enforcement agencies to maintain the safety and integrity of our correctional facilities. We will continue to work tirelessly to combat illegal activities that threaten our communities," Sheriff Seal stated.
