Employee Fired and Arrested for Smuggling Contraband Inside Cake at SC Prison

In a surprising turn of events, a recent hire at the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC) finds herself facing legal trouble and unemployment after allegedly attempting to smuggle contraband into a prison facility. The method used for hiding the prohibited items? Baking them inside a cake.

Unique Smuggling Method Uncovered

Shauntee Lynette Brumfield, a 44-year-old resident of Sumpter, South Carolina, has been named as the key figure in this smuggling attempt. The SCDC inspector general has issued arrest warrants for Brumfield, who is accused of collaborating with two others to sneak contraband into the Tuberville Correctional Institution, where she was employed.

The arrest warrants indicate that Brumfield, though not a certified SCDC officer, was found with incriminating items during her shift. A routine X-ray scan revealed a cellphone among her belongings. Upon further investigation, officials discovered a small digital scale, various electronic chargers, and a clear bag containing tobacco.

Hidden Contraband Unveiled

SCDC Director Bryan Stirling shared a photo illustrating how the prohibited items were ingeniously concealed within the cake. The cellphone, chargers, and tobacco were securely taped and positioned inside the cake. Stirling posted on X, "A newly hired employee at Turbeville CI tried a unique way to get contraband into that prison today. Front gate found a cell phone, a charger and tobacco taped up inside a cake."

Legal Consequences Unfold

The arrest warrant outlines that unauthorized devices and substances, classified as contraband, are strictly prohibited from entering correctional institutions. Brumfield admitted under Miranda rights that she knowingly brought contraband into the facility, having conspired with an unidentified inmate and a third party. Another SCDC employee corroborated this information.

Brumfield was taken into custody on Tuesday and is presently held at the Clarendon County Detention Center.

Firm Action by SCDC

An SCDC spokesperson emphasized the department's unwavering stance against contraband smuggling. "SCDC arrests and fires any officer or employee caught attempting to bring contraband inside our prisons. We hold our officers to a high standard and expect them to live up to it."

Charges and Legal Reminder

Brumfield faces charges of providing prisoners with contraband and participating in criminal conspiracy. The South Carolina Department of Corrections underscores the importance of due process: "The S.C. Department of Corrections reminds members of the public that after an arrest, the burden of proof is on the state to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt within a court of law."

Final Thoughts

This unusual incident highlights the lengths some individuals may go to smuggle contraband into correctional facilities. The innovative yet illegal cake-smuggling technique serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to maintain security within such institutions.