B

Hamblen County Sheriff Chad Mullins announced that a correctional officer is facing charges after allegedly bringing narcotics into the Hamblen County jail.

Chasity Merritt faces several criminal charges for the alleged smuggling of contraband into the facility.

The investigation began when the HCSO received reports from another department about narcotics possibly being brought into the jail.

“The Hamblen County Jail prides itself on its mission to keep the region safe and better its community,” Mullins said.

“I hold my employees to a higher standard and no one is above the law,” Mullins said. “If any of my folks are found to have made a conscious decision to break the law, they will be fired, charged and jailed.”

Merritt was interviewed by investigators on July 17 before her shift. Her personal belongings were searched. Investigators found 14.6 grams of methamphetamine in her possession which was field tested on scene. This is considered a schedule II violation in Tennessee which is a felony.

A Hydrocodone pill which equates to a schedule III drug violation, also a felony, was found in her personal vehicle. Officials also found a loaded .38 caliber pistol and a drug bottle not belonging to Merritt.

Merritt was charged with introducing contraband to the jail, Manufacturing/Delivering/Sale or Possession of methamphetamines, Manufacturing/Delivering/Sale or Possession of controlled substances, Unlawful Drug Paraphernalia uses and activities, as well as Firearm Use in association with dangerous felonies.

Merritt was released on bond.

Depending on the type of substance an individual is caught with, the “schedule” that is lowest in number that they are charged with is the most severe. For example, methamphetamine is a schedule II drug because it is likely to result in severe psychological or physiological codependency.