By Associated Press - Thursday, July 13, 2017

OSHKOSH, Wis. (AP) - Newly released documents show a nearly two-week lockdown at a Wisconsin state prison more than 50 miles southwest of Green Bay was the result of illegal drug activity involving dozens of inmates.

About 70 correctional officers from five other prisons helped search the Oshkosh Correctional Institution for contraband during the lockdown that began June 1, WLUK-TV (https://bit.ly/2uVjcUa ) reported.

Warden Judy Smith said in an email obtained by the TV station that the lockdown and search was prompted by “serious incidents involving overdoses and contraband drugs.”

Documents show 30 inmates were identified for alleged drug involvement. They were found with a synthetic opioid called fentanyl, which doctors say can be 50 times stronger than heroin. Remnants of other substances and pills were also found, according to the documents.

The entire prison was searched during the lockdown, including its housing units, laundry facilities, food service area and prison grounds. Drug-sniffing dogs were used in the search.

The lockdown restricted inmate movement in the prison for about two weeks.

State Department of Corrections documents show changes are being made to the prison visitation room and incoming mail. Prison officials said they’re reviewing operational changes in order to ensure the safety of both the staff and inmates.

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Information from: WLUK-TV, https://www.fox11online.com

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