A former Texas prison inmate has been arrested on allegations that he mailed synthetic drugs disguised as legal correspondence to incarcerated individuals in correctional facilities across the United States, according to Texas authorities.
Deidrick Capers was taken into custody on June 2 at his residence in Texas City following an investigation led by the Texas Board of Criminal Justice Office of Inspector General, officials said.
Investigators allege Capers sent counterfeit legal mail containing synthetic cannabinoids and other narcotics to inmates housed in Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities, prisons in other states, and federal correctional institutions nationwide.
Authorities executed a search warrant at Capers’ home and recovered what they described as drug-lab paraphernalia, legal mail stamps and counterfeit labels. Investigators also seized paper soaked with K2, approximately 30 grams of Suboxone, about 50 grams of liquid K2, and $4,225 in cash.
Capers was charged with manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance in Penalty Group 2, a second-degree felony under Texas law. Officials said additional charges from other jurisdictions could follow as the investigation continues.
The arrest stemmed from a joint investigation involving the Office of Inspector General, the TDCJ Intelligence Center, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Galveston County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office and the U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Violent Offender and Fugitive Task Force.
“This arrest marks an initial step in a larger investigative effort. Evidence gathered thus far indicates the presence of a broader drug-trafficking ring targeting correctional facilities across the country, and our investigators will continue to pursue every lead,” Inspector General Lance Coleman said. “Working alongside our law enforcement partners, we remain committed to identifying and apprehending all individuals involved in this criminal enterprise.”
Officials said the case highlights ongoing concerns about narcotics entering prisons through the mail system.
“Keeping drugs out of our facilities is one of TDCJ’s highest priorities. Synthetic narcotics threaten the safety of our staff, jeopardize the well-being of those incarcerated, and undermine the secure operation of our prisons,” TDCJ Executive Director Bobby Lumpkin said. “This case serves as a clear reminder of the ongoing challenges associated with contraband entering through the mail system.”
According to authorities, Capers has prior convictions involving stalking, theft, possession of cocaine, and forgery of a commercial instrument.
Investigators said the inquiry remains active as they continue to examine evidence pointing to what they believe may be a larger trafficking operation targeting correctional institutions throughout the country.
