By Staff Report
Two women were arrested June 12 following a Holmes County Sheriff’s Office investigation that led to the seizure of more than a pound of methamphetamine reportedly intended to be smuggled into Holmes Correctional Institution.
According to an HCSO report, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Danielle Bender of Atlanta, Georgia. During the stop, deputies developed probable cause to search the vehicle.
A subsequent search resulted in deputies locating more than 200 grams of methamphetamine concealed inside a box of candy, according to investigators.
Bender was taken into custody and reportedly told deputies she was traveling to meet Donetta Griffin, a Florida Department of Corrections employee from South Florida, at a hotel in Bonifay. According to HCSO, Bender stated the two planned to deliver the narcotics to an inmate at Holmes Correctional Institution during visitation.
Investigators with the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office, along with deputies and inspectors from the Florida Department of Corrections Office of Inspector General, responded to the hotel and made contact with Griffin.
Authorities said Griffin consented to a search of her hotel room, where investigators located an additional 200-plus grams of methamphetamine inside her purse.
During questioning, Griffin reportedly confirmed details provided by Bender regarding the alleged plan to introduce the narcotics into the correctional facility.
Bender and Griffin were both arrested and charged with trafficking in methamphetamine (over 200 grams).
Holmes County Sheriff John Tate commended the deputies, investigators, and partnering agencies involved in the investigation.
“This arrest prevented a significant quantity of illegal narcotics from being introduced into our correctional system and community,” Tate said.
The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office stated it remains committed to stopping the flow of dangerous drugs and holding those responsible accountable.
AMBER PATINO 