A correctional officer named Khalif Workman recently pled guilty to a series of charges for his role in smuggling narcotics into the Riverside Correctional Facility (RCF) in Philadelphia, according to the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office. Workman pleaded guilty to manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities, conspiracy, and bribery.
Background Information About the Crime
During the investigation, authorities discovered that Workman had participated in a complex scheme to bring drugs to inmates within the prison. Evidence revealed that inmates had arranged drug purchases through CashApp and used an outside contact to deliver the contraband to Workman for distribution inside the prison.
Over time, Workman accepted 15 separate bribes totaling $23,000 to smuggle drugs into the facility. He even used these illegal proceeds to buy property in Philadelphia, which added to the evidence against him. On September 26, 2024, the Philadelphia correctional officer was convicted, and a judge sentenced him to one and a half to three years in state prison.
What Is Possession with Intent to Deliver?
Possession with intent to deliver (PWID) is a crime that involves holding a controlled substance with the aim of selling, distributing, or transferring it. In Pennsylvania, this offense is a felony if the drug involved is a Schedule I or II controlled substance. Authorities often charge defendants with PWID if the amount of drugs in their possession exceeds a reasonable amount for personal use.
In Workman’s case, investigators found large quantities of narcotics, along with evidence such as financial transactions and text messages. Pennsylvania law classifies PWID as a felony offense because it indicates that the accused person had a plan to distribute illegal drugs. Convictions for PWID can result in lengthy prison terms and steep fines.
What Is Prison Contraband?
Prison contraband includes any items that are illegal or unauthorized within a correctional facility. Common examples include drugs, alcohol, weapons, and communication devices like cell phones. Pennsylvania law categorizes delivery of prison contraband as a severe offense, especially if it involves controlled substances. Correctional officers, inmates, and outsiders who attempt to smuggle contraband into a facility can all face serious legal consequences. For instance, providing controlled substances to inmates is a second-degree felony in Pennsylvania and carries mandatory prison time. In the Workman case, the correctional officer was sentenced to up to three years in prison for his involvement in the scheme to deliver prison contraband to RCF inmates.
Contact the Zeiger Firm for Your Criminal Defense
A charge for possession with intent to deliver can have severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. These penalties can affect your future opportunities, personal life, and employment. If you’re dealing with this kind of charge, a skilled Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your options and build a strong case. Your attorney can investigate your case, challenge inadmissible evidence, and work to reduce or dismiss the charges when possible.
If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania, contact defense attorney Brian Zeiger at The Zeiger Firm. Brian offers free initial consultations to discuss how to approach your case. Don’t wait—reach out today and get the support you need to fight these charges.
