Department of Corrections have issued a warning after someone used a pair of shoes to try and smuggle methamphetamine into Rimutaka Prison.
The sneaky sneakers were no walkover for a detector dog who had his suspicious aroused during a routine search of incoming property at the Upper Hutt prison earlier this month.
“During the search, Bart [the dog] gave a very strong indication on a box of trainers. He would not leave the box alone.
“His handler John Thorne began manually searching the shoes, carefully checking all of the usual cavities for concealment. However, he did not locate anything of concern.
“Bart was adamant that he was right, so I knew I needed to keep searching,” says Thorne. “I checked the padding around the heel and then I felt an inconsistency.
“I ripped open that cavity and found a bag of white powder. I then felt the padding on the other side of the shoe and I felt a similar inconsistency. I checked the other shoe and it was the same on both sides.”
The incident was reported to police and the substances were collected to be tested.
Police have since confirmed the substance as two small bags of methamphetamine (approximately 2.5 grams total), and four larger bags of cocaine (approximately 22.5 grams total).
Thorne said the failed shoe as mules should be a deterrent to anyone thinking of smuggling contraband into prisons.
“There is no place for drugs in prison. They create a more dangerous working environment for our staff, and prevent prisoners from engaging in rehabilitation, education and employment opportunities.”
