FORMER GUARD PLEADS GUILTY TO PROVIDING MARIJUANA TO INMATE

(VICTORIA, Texas) – A former federal prison guard has been convicted of smuggling contraband into a federal facility, United States Attorney José Angel Moreno announced today.

Andy Encinia, 31, of Mathis, Texas, pleaded guilty today to smuggling three grams of marijuana into FCI Three Rivers Correctional Facility on or about June 21, 2010. The charges against Encinia are the result of an ongoing investigation targeting anyone who introduces contraband into federal prison facilities. The investigation leading to the charges against Encinia began when the search of an inmate at the facility resulted in the discovery of approximately three grams of marijuana. Encinia ultimately admitted to Department of Justice-Office of Inspector General (DOJ-OIG) agents that he provided the marijuana to the inmate in the FCI Three Rivers Correctional Facility. 
           
Marijuana is a prohibited object as defined under Title 18, United States Code, Section 1791 and attempting to provide marijuana to an inmate violates both a statute and detention facility rules. Encinia faces a maximum five years incarceration and/or a $250,000 fine at sentencing, which is scheduled for Dec. 6, 2010, at 2:30 pm. Encinia will be permitted to remain on bond pending sentencing.

The investigation was conducted by DOJ-OIG and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James McAlister.

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