San Diego, February 4, 2026
Authorities in San Diego have arrested four individuals linked to a drug-smuggling operation involving greeting cards soaked with methamphetamine. The cards were intended for delivery to an inmate at a local detention facility. The arrests come after deputies intercepted suspicious envelopes containing these drug-laden cards. The investigation is ongoing, revealing methods of drug concealment that pose serious safety risks within correctional facilities.
San Diego, CA – Multiple Arrests in Drug-Laced Greeting Card Scheme
Authorities in San Diego have arrested four individuals in connection with a drug-smuggling operation involving greeting cards soaked with methamphetamine, intended for delivery to a county detention facility.
Details of the Arrests
On February 3, 2026, deputies from the San Diego County Sheriff’s mail processing center intercepted three envelopes containing greeting cards saturated with methamphetamine. These envelopes were addressed to 33-year-old inmate Kevin Ball at an unspecified detention facility. The investigation led to the arrest of:
- Ajshanee Clariday, 33 – Allegedly conspired with Ball to mail the drug-laden cards. She was arrested on December 12, 2025, and faces charges including supplying controlled substances to an incarcerated person, bringing drugs into a jail, and criminal conspiracy.
- Kevin Ball, 33 – The intended recipient of the methamphetamine-soaked cards, arrested on an outstanding felony warrant.
- Fredrick Perez – Arrested on February 3, 2026, in connection with the scheme.
- Luis Rios – Also arrested on February 3, 2026, related to the operation.
Investigation and Legal Implications
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office Detention Investigations Unit determined that Clariday conspired with Ball on names to use for deliveries, mailing times, drug connections, and payment methods. The investigation is ongoing, with additional arrests or charges possible as interviews conclude and lab results are received. Authorities have emphasized that sending controlled substances into a jail is a felony that could lead to up to six years in prison.
Background on Drug-Smuggling Methods
This case highlights a growing trend of drug smuggling into correctional facilities through mail. Inmates and their associates have been known to send drug-soaked letters or greeting cards, which can be torn up and consumed or sold inside the facility. This method poses significant safety risks to both staff and incarcerated individuals. Correctional facilities are continually enhancing their mail screening processes to detect and prevent such contraband from entering their institutions.
Public Safety Advisory
Authorities urge the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious mail or activities related to drug smuggling. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office continues to work closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to combat the distribution of illicit substances and ensure the safety of the community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the charges against the individuals arrested?
The individuals were charged with supplying controlled substances to an incarcerated person, bringing drugs into a jail, and criminal conspiracy. These charges are felonies that could lead to up to six years in prison.
How were the drugs concealed in the mail?
The drugs were concealed by soaking greeting cards with methamphetamine, which were then mailed to an inmate at a county detention facility.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with additional arrests or charges possible as interviews conclude and lab results are received. Authorities have emphasized the seriousness of sending controlled substances into a jail.
How can the public assist in preventing drug smuggling into correctional facilities?
The public is urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious mail or activities related to drug smuggling. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office continues to work closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to combat the distribution of illicit substances and ensure the safety of the community.
Key Features of the Drug-Laced Greeting Card Scheme
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Method of Concealment | Greeting cards soaked with methamphetamine |
| Intended Recipient | 33-year-old inmate Kevin Ball |
| Arrested Individuals | Ajshanee Clariday, Kevin Ball, Fredrick Perez, Luis Rios |
| Charges | Supplying controlled substances to an incarcerated person, bringing drugs into a jail, criminal conspiracy |
| Potential Penalty | Up to six years in prison |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
