By By Lisa Tindell
Following a search by the Escambia County Jail administration staff, one person's status changed from that of employee to inmate.
Julius Ray Harris, 18 of Brewton, was arrested following a search on July 21 by jail staff and charged with possession of a controlled substance; possession of marijuana – 2nd degree; promoting prison contraband – 2nd degree; and possession of drug paraphernalia.
The search was conducted after administration employees received information that contraband was being brought into the jail by staff members, Major Mike Murphy said.
"The information provided was correct, Murphy said. "The Jail Administration staff conducted searches of employees as they reported to work." Upon being searched it was discovered Harris had in his possession two packs of Bugler tobacco pouches hidden in his socks.
"Upon inspection of the contents inside, deputies and correctional officers found a green leafy substance in one and a white flaky substance in the other," Murphy said. "In addition to these items being found, a plastic bag containing a white powdery substance was found in Julius' wallet and a gray plastic pipe was in his pocket."
Harris was arrested immediately and booked into the Detention Center as an inmate Murphy said. "His bond was set at $5,000," Murphy said. "He made bond and was released later on the same evening of the arrest"
Jail Administrator Captain James Freeman also terminated Harris as a detention center employee Murphy said.