From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

 

On Jan. 16, 2018 the Arcata Police Department arrested Michele Kay Banda, 32, on charges of felony child endangerment and violation of probation. Banda was also booked on two bench warrants for possession of methamphetamine and possession of a narcotic controlled substance.

While processing Banda for housing in the Humboldt County Correctional Facility, Deputy Avila-Perez observed Banda remove something from her bra. Deputy Avila-Perez called for additional officers to assist as Banda was unwilling to give up the suspected contraband. Banda attempted to swallow the contraband. Correctional staff reacted quickly and were able to prevent Banda from swallowing the contraband. During the incident Banda made attempts to bite and kick the correctional deputies. Banda eventually spit out the contraband, which was then found to be a baggie containing .6 grams of suspected heroin.

Banda was booked on an additional charge of possession of a controlled substance in a correctional facility.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office commends Deputy Avila-Perez for her keen observations and quick actions preventing a medical emergency and the entrance of contraband into the facility.