Lake Charles, Louisiana – A Calcasieu Parish correctional deputy has been arrested and charged following an investigation into alleged contraband smuggling at the Calcasieu Correctional Center (CCC). Authorities say Dalronique Q. Ross, 20, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, conspired with others to introduce synthetic cannabinoids—commonly known as “spice”—into the jail by using paper sprayed with the substance.
The investigation began on April 21, after the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office (CPSO) received reports about a possible breach of trust by a correctional deputy. The Combined Anti-Drug Task Force (C.A.T.), a multi-agency group focused on drug enforcement in Calcasieu Parish, was alerted and launched an inquiry.
Detectives gathered information suggesting that Ross was involved in a plan to purchase and distribute the drug-laced paper within the correctional facility. According to authorities, synthetic cannabinoids are chemicals that mimic the effects of marijuana but can be much more dangerous and unpredictable.
Following the initial findings, Ross was terminated from her position with CPSO on May 6. The investigation continued, and by May 13, Judge David Ritchie had signed a warrant for Ross’s arrest. She was taken into custody and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center on May 14.
Ross faces multiple charges, including malfeasance in office, criminal conspiracy, and introduction of contraband into a penal facility. Her bond has been set at $50,000.
Sheriff Stitch Guillory commented on the case, stating, “When a deputy violates the trust that is placed in them by this office and our community, they will be held accountable. No one is above the law, including those who wear the badge. As soon as we were made aware of the possible introduction of contraband, we immediately took action.”
The sheriff emphasized that additional searches were conducted inside the Calcasieu Correctional Center, resulting in the confiscation and removal of contraband connected to the case. Guillory added, “We will continue to take every measure necessary to maintain the safety and integrity of our facility. This type of behavior will not be tolerated, and I remain committed to transparency for those we serve.”
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have indicated that more arrests may follow as the case develops. The C.A.T. is being assisted by the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division, Enforcement Division, and Special Operations Group (SOG) Unit.
The Combined Anti-Drug Task Force is a collaborative initiative involving local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Its mission is to disrupt and prevent the trafficking of illegal substances in Calcasieu Parish.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.