On November 7, 2024, the Polk County Sheriff's Office launched an investigation into an attempted smuggling operation involving synthetic marijuana, commonly known as K2, into the Polk County Jail. The illegal substance was being mailed via the United States Postal Service in a coordinated effort involving inmate Kenneth Lamar Lynch and outside accomplices.
Jail Division and Narcotics Detectives intercepted the package before it could reach its destination, preventing the prohibited substance from entering the correctional facility. Investigators tracked the envelope’s shipment, uncovering the conspiracy.
The investigation revealed that Lynch had conspired with Michelle Rae Johnston and others to orchestrate the smuggling attempt. As a result, six felony warrants were issued.
Charges Against Kenneth Lamar Lynch:
- Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (Felony 1)
- Criminal Conspiracy - Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance PG 2A (Felony 3)
- Prohibited Substance in a Correctional Facility (Felony 2)
Charges Against Michelle Rae Johnston:
- Prohibited Substance in a Correctional Facility (Felony 2)
- Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance PG 2A (Felony 2)
- Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (Felony 1)
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation and may pursue federal charges in addition to the state charges already filed. Sheriff Byron Lyons emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity of detention facilities and expressed the department’s commitment to proactive law enforcement.
