Man Transports Synthetic Drugs Into Somerset County Jail Through 'Anal Cavity', Police Say

A 21-year-old Bridgewater resident has been arrested and charged for allegedly transporting synthetic marijuana through his “anal cavity” and distributing it to Somerset County Jail inmates, according to authorities.

An investigation conducted by Somerset County detectives began shortly after five inmates were transported to an area hospital due to overdose symptoms brought on by the use of synthetic marijuana.

That same day, July 15, police used a narcotics K-9 to located and seize a small quantity of synthetic marijuana, which will be analyzed by the New Jersey State Police laboratory.

“Detectives conducted numerous interviews of several witnesses in the Somerset County Jail, which ultimately led to the identification of Renato Escobar,” according to The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office.

“Escobar was identified as the individual who transported synthetic marijuana, also known as “K2,” into the Somerset County Jail via his anal cavity.”

He was arrested without incident on Tuesday and charged with third-degree distribution of a synthetic cannabinoid. Escobar is currently lodged at the Somerset County Jail, with bail set at $20,000 - cash only.

On July 15, utilizing a police narcotics K-9, jail officials located a small quantity of synthetic marijuana. The synthetic marijuana was seized and will be analyzed by the New Jersey State Police laboratory.

“I will do everything in my power to maintain a drug-free, safe and secure environment in our county jail to protect the inmates, staff and visitors,” said Somerset County Sheriff Frank J. Provenzano.