Mother Charged After Drugs Found on Teen During Cayuga Prison Visit

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A Buffalo woman was charged after authorities said drugs were discovered on a teenage girl during a prison visit at Cayuga Correctional Facility. The incident occurred on February 15 when a K9 and investigator conducted searches on visitors entering the facility. The K9 alerted to the 13-year-old girl, who had arrived with her mother to visit an inmate, and also to the mother when both were brought into a separate room for questioning. During questioning, the teen turned over three bundles containing about 224 grams of marijuana that had been hidden under her shirt.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges correctional facilities face in preventing the smuggling of contraband, especially when visitors are involved. It also raises concerns about the welfare of minors who may be unwittingly or coerced into carrying illegal substances into prisons.

The details

The mother was charged with second-degree promoting prison contraband and endangering the welfare of a child, while the teen was charged as a juvenile with second-degree promoting prison contraband. Both were issued appearance tickets for criminal and family court proceedings.

• The incident occurred on February 15, 2026.

What’s next

The judge will decide on the mother's and daughter's court appearances and potential sentencing.