Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex Requests Kentucky State Police Assistance After Locating Contraband 

WEST LIBERTY, Ky. (May 22, 2026) – At the request of the Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex (EKCC), the Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 8 in Morehead was contacted on May 21 after prison officials caught a correctional officer bringing illegal narcotics into the facility.

KSP arrived on scene and opened an investigation. Based on evidence, KSP charged Joe A. Cress, 60, of Hazard, Ky., with Promoting Contraband in the First Degree, Trafficking in a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree (greater than 20 dosage units), and Official Misconduct in the First Degree. 

Mr. Cress was transported to the Rowan County Detention Center.

The investigation remains ongoing and is being led by Trooper Brian Evans.

Below is a statement from the Department of Corrections:
Joe Cress has been terminated effective May 22.

The Department of Corrections takes aggressive steps to control contraband from entering the facilities, including but not limited to frisk searches, the use of body scanners, only allowing clear bags inside and putting them through the belt x-ray machine, and limiting the number of personal belongings that employees can bring to work, among other protocols. These requirements apply to employees of DOC, visitors, vendors, and contract employees.

The Department remains committed to protecting both inmates and correctional employees by continually evaluating and strengthening contraband prevention efforts, and has seen a significant reduction in dangerous contraband this year, including a more than 35% decrease at the Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex.

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