Teens Arrested for Launching Meth into Louisiana Prison with Air Cannon

In a bold and unconventional smuggling attempt, two Colorado teenagers were arrested for trying to launch a substantial payload of methamphetamine and tobacco into a Louisiana federal prison using a compressed air cannon. The duo, identified as 19-year-old Angel Gonzales and 18-year-old José Francisco Herrera Munoz, targeted the Federal Correctional Complex in Pollock, Louisiana.

The Ingenious Yet Illegal Plan

The suspects planned to use a professionally manufactured compressed air cannon, akin to those employed at sporting events to shoot T-shirts into crowds, to propel their contraband over the prison’s security fence. The cannon boasted the capability to launch objects over 350 feet, making it a formidable tool for their illicit operation.

High-Stakes Payload

The intended payload was notably substantial, comprising approximately $112,000 worth of tobacco and $89,500 worth of methamphetamine. Such a significant influx of drugs and tobacco could have had severe repercussions on the prison environment, exacerbating addiction issues and undermining institutional security.

Foiled by Vigilant Law Enforcement

The plan unraveled when a vigilant deputy from the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office observed suspicious activity near the prison premises. The authorities intervened before the duo could execute their scheme, leading to their arrest on charges of attempting to introduce contraband into a penal institution and intending to distribute methamphetamine.

Legal Ramifications and Immigration Status

In addition to facing serious state charges, the case attracted the attention of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). It was discovered that Herrera Munoz had entered the United States illegally, resulting in his detention by ICE and potential deportation proceedings.

A Cautionary Tale

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which individuals may go to circumvent the law and the critical role of law enforcement in intercepting such creative yet illegal endeavors. The use of unconventional methods, such as an air cannon, highlights the evolving challenges faced by authorities in preventing contraband smuggling into correctional facilities.

Disclaimer: All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The information provided is based on available reports at the time of writing.