MIAMI, Fla. – Janai Chanel Stephens, a 38-year-old woman from Opa-locka, Miami-Dade County, was arrested today following a two-count indictment for allegedly providing contraband to a federal prisoner at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex.
The indictment, filed on May 28, 2024, charges Stephens with making a materially false statement to a Federal Bureau of Prisons Correctional Officer and providing contraband to an inmate.
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According to the indictment, Stephens falsely claimed she was not in possession of any prohibited items when entering the correctional facility on March 10, 2024. However, she allegedly proceeded to provide tobacco, a prohibited substance, to an inmate.
United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg emphasized the importance of maintaining the security and integrity of federal prisons, stating, “Smuggling contraband into a federal prison not only jeopardizes the safety of inmates and staff but also undermines the rehabilitation process.”
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If convicted, Stephens faces up to five years in federal prison. It is important to note that an indictment is merely an accusation, and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The investigation was conducted by the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General. The case will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tyrie K. Boyer.
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