An Albany woman has been sentenced to more than eight years in prison for her role in creating and distributing synthetic cannabinoids, a Schedule I controlled substance. Maya McIntosh, 33, was convicted for her hands-on involvement in the manufacturing process, where she transformed constituent chemicals into the drug MDMB-4en-PINACA, and her innovative method of smuggling the substance into correctional facilities via the U.S. Mail.
The scheme devised by McIntosh, which operated from at least January 2023 through July 2024, involved the mailing of drugs disguised as legal correspondence to inmates. According to court documents obtained by the Department of Justice, McIntosh manipulated conventional paper materials, soaking them in the synthetic drug and packaging them as if they were legitimate mailings from attorneys. The ruse not only bypassed security measures within the prison system, but it also endangered the safety of corrections personnel, the law-abiding public, and the prison population.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III emphasized the ramifications of McIntosh's actions, stating, "Maya McIntosh endangered the health and safety of hardworking corrections officers and prison staff when she manufactured a synthetic drug and smuggled it into correctional facilities through the U.S. Mail. Now she will spend 8 years behind bars herself." The collaboration between federal and state authorities was pivotal in the investigation and subsequent sentencing of McIntosh, signaling a strong stance against drug trafficking.
Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Ketty Larco-Ward, also underscored the commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the mail service, "The U.S. Postal Inspection Service works diligently to preserve the integrity of the mail by investigating and bringing to justice, those who use it illegally." The successful prosecution of McIntosh serves as a testament to the vigilant efforts of law enforcement agencies in combating the influx of contraband through seemingly innocuous channels.
Upon her sentencing, McIntosh also faces a 3-year term of supervised release following her imprisonment, and has been ordered to forfeit more than $42,000 in proceeds from her illegal activities. This case was a multi-agency effort, investigating contributions from USPIS, HSI Buffalo Field Office, and the New York City Department of Correction Special Investigation Unit, with assistance from several other agencies, reflecting a unified front in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and prison-based crime.
