RICHMOND COUNTY, Va. — A Newport News woman has been arrested after attempting to smuggle drugs into the Haynesville Correctional Center during an inmate graduation ceremony, authorities said.
Kristyn Nicole Mazzariello, a family member of an inmate, was detained on November 22, 2024, after she attempted to visit the facility for the scheduled event. Officials from the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) stopped Mazzariello for questioning before performing a routine drug and contraband scan with the help of a K-9 unit.
The dog alerted officials to possible contraband on Mazzariello’s person and in her vehicle. Authorities then conducted a more thorough search, during which Mazzariello reportedly admitted to having hidden illegal substances. She handed over three packages containing 90 Buprenorphine and Naloxone strips and seven synthetic marijuana papers, all of which are considered controlled substances. The drugs have an estimated prison street value of approximately $75,000.
Mazzariello now faces serious felony charges, including manufacturing, distributing, or possessing controlled substances, or imitation controlled substances, with intent to distribute. These charges are part of ongoing efforts by the VADOC to clamp down on drug trafficking within correctional facilities.
The incident remains under investigation, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information about attempted smuggling to contact the Virginia Department of Corrections at 540-830-9280.
This arrest serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by contraband in correctional institutions and the vigilance of law enforcement in preventing its entry.
