Nj corrections officer among six charged in alleged south woods prison contraband smuggling scheme

A New Jersey Department of Corrections investigation has led to criminal charges against a senior corrections officer and five others accused of participating in an alleged contraband smuggling and money laundering operation tied to South Woods State Prison.

TRENTON, N.J. — A nearly two-year investigation by the New Jersey Department of Corrections has resulted in criminal charges against six individuals, including a senior correctional police officer, in connection with an alleged contraband smuggling and money laundering scheme operating through South Woods State Prison.

The Department of Corrections announced that investigators assigned to the South Woods State Prison Special Investigations Division launched the probe in September 2024 after receiving information that a correctional officer was allegedly introducing prohibited items into the prison in exchange for financial compensation.

The investigation ultimately uncovered what authorities described as a conspiracy involving current and former incarcerated individuals as well as civilian associates.

Corrections officer charged

Among those charged is Senior Correctional Police Officer Kenneth Stinson, 39, of Penns Grove.

According to the Department of Corrections, Stinson has been charged with third-degree money laundering and introduction of contraband into a correctional facility.

Officials said Stinson was suspended from his position effective March 25, 2025.

Investigators allege Stinson conspired with multiple individuals both inside and outside the prison to facilitate transactions involving contraband smuggled into South Woods State Prison.

Five additional suspects charged

Five other individuals were also charged as part of the investigation.

Authorities identified them as:

Rashawn Bond, 49, of Leesburg
John Tracy, 50, of Glassboro
James Gallichio, 42, of Parlin
Desiree Tracy, 52, of Glassboro
Melanie Posey, 53, of Conyers, Georgia

Each faces money laundering charges and charges related to the introduction of contraband, according to the Department of Corrections.

The Cumberland County Prosecutor’s Office authorized the criminal charges on June 1 following completion of the investigation.

Investigation began in 2024

Officials said investigators spent months gathering intelligence and examining financial transactions connected to the alleged operation.

“Contraband directly threatens the lives and safety of everyone within correctional facilities,” Commissioner Victoria L. Kuhn said.

“Introducing prohibited items puts both staff and the incarcerated population at risk. This successful investigation by the South Woods State Prison Special Investigations Division reflects a total commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and stable environment.”

Officials highlight broader security concerns

Chief Investigator Timathy Gonzalez said contraband investigations often extend far beyond prison walls and can involve complex networks of participants.

“This investigation combined intelligence gathering and coordination with our law enforcement partners to identify and disrupt an organized contraband smuggling operation,” Gonzalez said.

“Contraband investigations often extend beyond facility walls and involve complex networks of incarcerated persons, former incarcerated persons, civilians, and others working to circumvent security measures.”

Gonzalez added that investigators remain focused on identifying and dismantling such networks.

Department vows continued enforcement

The Department of Corrections said contraband remains a significant threat to institutional security because prohibited items can facilitate criminal activity inside correctional facilities.

Officials stated that intelligence-driven investigations, financial analysis, and partnerships with prosecutors and law enforcement agencies remain central to efforts aimed at preventing smuggling operations.

The criminal cases will now proceed through the court system.

As with all criminal defendants, those charged are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Key Points

• A New Jersey Department of Corrections investigation resulted in charges against six individuals tied to an alleged contraband smuggling scheme.

• Senior Correctional Police Officer Kenneth Stinson of Penns Grove is accused of introducing contraband into South Woods State Prison in exchange for money.

• Five additional individuals from New Jersey and Georgia face money laundering and contraband-related charges.

• The Cumberland County Prosecutor’s Office authorized the charges following an investigation that began in September 2024.

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