March 19, 2024

Inmate caught with 19 grams of heroin

An inmate at the Jasper County Jail is accused of stashing 19 grams of heroin in her jail cell and distributing it for use.

Jasper County Jail inmates reported to jail staff that 26-year-old Morgan R. Cope was hiding multiple bags of heroin in her genitals, according to a police report. One inmate told jail staff they had seen a gray powder in the jail cell and distributed it to someone to use.

The reports of heroin at the jail were made after Cope had returned from Skiff Medical Center after being treated for medical issues related to drug use. Cope denied possessing any heroin but was seen by jail staff making movements below her bedding. When jail staff entered, they found a plastic container on the floor that contained 19 grams of powder believed to be heroin.

Cope is charged with controlled substance violation and possession of contraband in a correctional institution. Multiple signs are posted before entering the Jasper County Jail, addressing the penalty for bringing contraband into the facility.

She was initially arrested on charges of fourth-degree theft, eluding, providing false identification of information and possession of drug paraphernalia at 10:12 p.m. Nov. 14. During that incident, Cope is accused of eluding police before crashing her vehicle into a ditch at the intersection of Robin and Ranch Avenues.

According to Jasper County Lt. Aaron Groves, who serves on the MINE Task Force, individuals are searched for contraband after arrest and then again while at the Jasper County Jail.

Cope is being held on $9,000 bond.

Contact Kayla Singletary at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or ksingletary@newtondailynews.com