Citizen Arrested At West Tennessee State Penitentiary

HENNING- Thursday morning, TDOC Institutional Investigator Thomas Shell and his team of special agents conducted a scheduled vehicle search at the West Tennessee State Penitentiary (WTSP).  During the search, Investigator Shell discovered several illegal items inside the vehicle of Cynthia Lynn Wilkins, who came to the facility to apply for employment.

The items discovered in Ms. Wilkins vehicle included illegal drugs, a firearm, and drug paraphernalia.  TDOC Special Agents arrested Ms. Wilkins for possession of a schedule II drug, drug possession with intent to deliver, possession of a weapon during the commission of a felony, and introduction of contraband into a penal facility.  The Lauderdale County Sheriff’s department transported Ms. Wilkins to the Lauderdale County Jail.

“The introduction of contraband into our prisons by anyone is a felony offense and a threat to the safety of our team, the offenders we supervise and the public,” TDOC Commissioner Tony Parker said.  “We remain committed to working with local law enforcement to vigorously prosecute anyone who attempts to bring in contraband, whether it is an inmate, visitor or staff."

TDOC’s non-negotiable mission is to operate safe and secure prisons and provide effective community supervision in order to enhance public safety.    TDOC encourages anyone with information about potential security concerns or contraband to call the department’s 24-hour anonymous tip line, 1-844-TDC-FIND (1-844-832-3463).