01-12-2009

Jason McGregory, age 25, of Paducah was charged with Promoting Contraband 1st Degree after he was booked into the McCracken Co. Regional Jail while attempting to conceal a small bag of marijuana in his mouth.

On Jan. 11th at approximately 7:27 am the Sheriff's Department received a call concerning a suspicious vehicle sitting in a drive way at 7250 Old US HWY 45, four miles south of Lone Oak. Upon arrival, Deputy David Knight found McGregory asleep behind the wheel of the vehicle. McGregory does not live at this address and stated he lives on Harrision Street in Paducah. Deputy Knight observed indicators that aroused his suspicions and he asked for consent to search the vehicle which was denied. Knight requested the assistance of Deputy Steve Croft and K-9 Derek. A search of the exterior of the vehicle with K-9 Derek resulted in a positive response for the presence of illegal drugs. A hand search of the interior resulted in several burned marijuana "roaches" being found as well as cigars that are cut in order to load the marijuana for smoking. McGregory was arrested and charged with Possession of Less Than 8 oz. Of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia 1st Offense.

Upon arrival at the jail McGregory was warned of the consequences of taking any contraband into the facility. He stated he did not have anything. Once inside it was discovered he was attempting to conceal approximately two grams of marijuana in a baggy inside his mouth. He was subsequently charged with Promoting Contraband 1st Degree.

This two grams of marijuana that might sell for $20-$25 on the street is worth $200-$250 inside the jail according to Chief Deputy Jailer Greg Garrison. Any amount is a potential problem. It can range from an inmate being under the influence and assaulting other inmates or staff to being resold several times.

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