Inmates’ confirmed use of advanced technology to smuggle illegal items behind prison walls occurred in Northwest Florida.

Associated Press

PENSACOLA — A package of contraband covered in grass clippings that was dropped by a drone at a Panhandle prison is one of the most recent examples of inmates using advanced technology to smuggle illegal items behind prison walls.

Authorities are investigating two confirmed drone drops at Florida prisons in the last 30 days. One of those drops was discovered at a Northwest Florida prison after correctional officers spotted the drone, which was delivering a cellphone and tobacco.

The Florida Department of Corrections declined to specify at which institution the drop happened and would only confirm it happened at a prison in the Northwest region of the state.

Officials say drones plague prisons across the nation, and most corrections departments are trying to keep up with new technology.