Nationwide — Sharon Elizabeth Smith, a 36-year-old former prison employee, has been arrested in Bishopville, South Carolina, after investigators said she allegedly attempted to smuggle $2,500 worth of grillz, also known as jewelry teeth coverings, into Lee Correctional Institution.
Smith had been working as a canteen manager at the prison. Authorities said she conspired with others to bring the items inside and was discovered during an active investigation on prison grounds.
According to WLBT, officers discovered the grillz hidden inside her vehicle while it was parked on prison property. The South Carolina Department of Corrections confirmed the discovery on Wednesday.
Smith was immediately fired from her position following the arrest. She is now facing a criminal conspiracy charge tied to the smuggling attempt.
Officials have not disclosed who else may have been involved in the plan or how long it had been in motion. The case is still under investigation.