A California woman received a seven-year prison sentence after being caught with a loaded firearm and later discovered smuggling heroin into state prisons using altered Bibles. Lucresia Stone-Rojas, 46, was initially apprehended in November 2023 during a traffic stop triggered by a license plate reader flagging a stolen Porsche. Inside the vehicle, authorities discovered a loaded 9mm Walther handgun and ammunition. Due to prior felony convictions, Stone-Rojas faced federal charges for unlawful gun possession, though charges related to the stolen vehicle were not pursued.
The case took another turn in December 2023 when investigators uncovered packages and envelopes addressed to inmates at a California state prison linked to Stone-Rojas. A subsequent search revealed two Bibles with 23 grams of heroin hidden within their spines. The illicit packages were intended for delivery to two separate California prisons. This discovery led to additional charges related to drug trafficking and attempting to introduce contraband into correctional facilities.
Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden emphasized the gravity of the offense, stating that smuggling drugs into prisons jeopardizes both inmates and correctional staff and will not be tolerated. He expressed hope that this case would deter others from exploiting religious materials for illicit activities.
