Man Arrested for Smuggling Cocaine into Ontario County Jail

Law enforcement reports indicate the contraband was a small bag containing a white powdery substance, which later field-tested positive for cocaine.

Authorities have arrested a Canandaigua man on charges of promoting prison contraband following an investigation at the Ontario County Jail.

According to the Ontario County Sheriff's Office, James Murray, 34, was taken into custody on February 17, 2025, after deputies determined he had allegedly introduced contraband into the jail facility. Law enforcement reports indicate the contraband was a small bag containing a white powdery substance, which later field-tested positive for cocaine.

Murray was charged with first-degree promoting prison contraband, a felony offense. Following his arrest, he was held at the jail. Officials say he is expected to appear in Hopewell Town Court at a later date to respond to the charges.

Authorities have not provided additional details on how the contraband entered the facility or whether further charges may be filed.