Prison worker arrested for smuggling drugs into DeSoto prison

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – DeSoto County is cracking down on smuggling operations.

Over the course of the past week, our Bureau of Detention staff worked with the Narcotics Unit to launch an investigation into illegal contraband entering the DeSoto County Jail.

The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office discovered a jail contract worker involved in the smuggling of these narcotics.

Leroy Thomas Jr. was identified as the main suspect supplying the worker.

On October 30, 2024, the SWAT team executed a search warrant and successfully arrested Thomas at his residence. Charges include contraband into a detention facility, use of a device to commit a felony and possession of synthetic cannabis.

The investigation is ongoing with the intention of locating more smugglers.