SMYRNA, DE – A Wilmington man already behind bars faces new felony charges after investigators uncovered a contraband smuggling scheme at the James T. Vaughn Correctional Center involving a reupholstered couch stuffed with drugs, pills, and electronics.
Delaware State Police said 36-year-old inmate Shamar Clark was arrested Monday following a months-long investigation into the elaborate smuggling attempt.
Two other men, identified as 35-year-old Charles Chambers of Wilmington and 31-year-old Jalen Hubbard of Dover, remain at large.
Key Points
- Inmate Shamar Clark charged with promoting prison contraband and drug felonies
- Couch delivered to prison was found loaded with meth, marijuana, and electronics
- Two suspected accomplices remain wanted by Delaware State Police
Officers find contraband hidden in couch
The investigation began July 23 when correctional officers inspecting a furniture delivery for the prison’s reupholstery program noticed the strong odor of marijuana. Inside the couch, they discovered an extensive stash that included 59.6 grams of methamphetamine, more than 1,600 grams of marijuana and THC edibles, 34 sheets of suspected K2 or K3 infused papers, 251 grams of gabapentin pills, 80 suboxone strips, two cell phones, and 53 USB drives.
The delivery had been made to Delaware Correctional Industries, a work program operated within the prison. Detectives determined the couch was intended to smuggle the items directly to Clark, who then planned to distribute them inside the facility.
Coordinated smuggling network exposed
Through investigative work, troopers linked Clark to Chambers and Hubbard, who allegedly helped orchestrate and transport the couch to the facility. Arrest warrants were issued for all three men on October 7.
Clark, who remains incarcerated at James T. Vaughn Correctional Center, was formally charged October 20 with multiple felonies related to drug trafficking and promoting prison contraband. He is being held on a $64,000 secured bond.
Delaware State Police continue to search for Chambers and Hubbard and are asking anyone with information about their whereabouts to contact Troop 2 or submit tips anonymously through Delaware Crime Stoppers.
