Niles, Ohio – A former corrections employee from Niles has admitted to smuggling illegal drugs and prohibited items into a state prison, in exchange for bribes.
Details of the Smuggling Scheme
James P. Jackson, age 39, worked at the Trumbull Correctional Institution (TCI) in Leavittsburg from 2022 to 2024, first as a corrections officer and later as a general maintenance worker. His position gave him access to restricted areas, including prison cells, and brought him into regular contact with inmates.
According to court records, Jackson became involved in a scheme with the wife of a TCI inmate. The two exchanged text messages and phone calls, ultimately arranging to meet in person. On February 1, 2024, they met, and she handed Jackson two large, wrapped packages intended for her husband, an inmate at the facility. In return, Jackson accepted $1,000 upfront, with the promise of receiving another $1,000 after the packages were successfully delivered inside the prison.
However, on February 2, 2024, when Jackson attempted to carry the packages into the facility, he was intercepted by law enforcement before he could get inside.
Contents of the Seized Packages
The investigation revealed the true nature of the smuggled goods:
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97.67 grams of a mixture containing methamphetamine
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207.63 grams of synthetic cannabinoid
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32.85 grams of phencyclidine (PCP or angel dust)
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Various other drugs
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A cellphone and multiple SIM cards
The discovery pointed to a major breach of prison security and raised concerns about the safety and integrity of the facility.
Legal Consequences and Charges
On July 15, 2025, Jackson pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act extortion under color of official right for using his position to accept bribes in exchange for smuggling contraband into the prison. He now faces a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $250,000. The final sentence will be determined by a federal district court judge, who will consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other legal factors. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
Investigation and Prosecution
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Trumbull Correctional Institution’s Office of Investigations, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Office of Criminal Investigations Prison Drug Unit and Investigative Services for the Warren District.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chelsea S. Rice and Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio.
This case highlights the serious risks posed by prison smuggling operations and the importance of multi-agency efforts to maintain security and accountability inside correctional facilities.
