SMYRNA, DE — A Wilmington woman has been charged with multiple felonies following an investigation into alleged drug smuggling at James T. Vaughn Correctional Center in Smyrna.
Yesenia Martinez-Morales, 27, was arrested on March 16, 2025, after an inquiry by the Delaware State Police Troop 2 Drug Unit and the Delaware Department of Correction. Officials allege that Martinez-Morales, a Correctional Officer, smuggled approximately 5.82 grams of methamphetamines into the facility.
The investigation began as part of official misconduct concerns raised by the Department of Correction. Commissioner Terra Taylor emphasized the department’s prioritization of safety within its facilities. “The action taken by the Department of Correction to initiate this criminal investigation and to expand the investigation through Delaware State Police demonstrates our commitment to protecting the health and safety of our employees and incarcerated individuals and the facilities in which they work and live,” she said.
Martinez-Morales was arrested and charged with several offenses, including felony official misconduct, promoting prison contraband with intent to deliver, and possessing a controlled substance under Tier 1 classification. She was arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court 11 and was released on a $3,500 unsecured bond.
The Delaware Department of Correction and State Police have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the integrity of correctional facilities and ensuring accountability for actions that jeopardize internal safety and operations.
Officials remind the public that an arrest or criminal charge is not an indication of guilt. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven otherwise in a court of law.
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