Second Unknown Substance Found at Anamosa State Penitentiary

Officials are investigating after a second incident of an unknown substance was discovered at the Anamosa State Penitentiary.

Two other inmates were found unresponsive in their cells and administered Narcan on Sunday. The incident follows Saturday’s case, in which an inmate and three staff members were taken to the hospital after being exposed to an unknown substance.

Neither of the inmates on Sunday required medical attention and both tested negative for illegal substances. The staff who responded did not become ill following their encounters with the two inmates. 

The Department of Corrections does not believe the two cases are related. Both incidents remain under investigation.

The Anamosa State Penitentiary has been placed on restricted movement for the foreseeable future, which will limit inmate movement throughout the facility and give the Department of Corrections staff the ability to conduct a large-scale search of the prison for illicit contraband. 

During the restricted movement period at the prison, no one will be allowed to visit the inmates.