WALLA WALLA, WA – A Seattle woman has been sentenced after pleading guilty to felony charges connected to a contraband case at the Washington State Penitentiary earlier this year.
Guilty Plea Entered
Mariella Gavarrete-Campos, 21, appeared in Walla Walla County Superior Court on Monday, where she formally pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to deliver and possession of a controlled substance not as a prisoner.
The charges stem from a March 2025 incident at the penitentiary, where authorities say she attempted to bring contraband into the facility.
Jail Sentence and Probation
During the sentencing hearing, defense attorney Rob Olson confirmed that his client would serve 30 days in jail. Judge Brandon Johnson noted that Gavarrete-Campos will receive credit for one day already served, reducing her remaining time slightly.
Upon completion of her sentence, she will serve one year of probation. As part of the court’s ruling, she is also banned from entering any Washington State Department of Corrections facilities.
Turning Herself In
On Monday, Gavarrete-Campos voluntarily turned herself in at the Walla Walla County Jail to begin serving her sentence. Authorities have not released further details about the March incident or whether additional individuals were involved.
Broader Context
The Washington State Penitentiary, located in Walla Walla, has seen several contraband cases in recent years, often involving visitors attempting to smuggle drugs or other prohibited items into the facility. Officials say such incidents compromise safety for staff, inmates, and visitors alike.
The Department of Corrections has continued to enforce strict penalties and long-term bans for anyone caught attempting to bring illegal substances into state prisons.
Key Points
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Defendant: Mariella Gavarrete-Campos, 21, of Seattle
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Charges: Conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to deliver; possession of a controlled substance not as a prisoner
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Sentence: 30 days in jail, with credit for one day served
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Probation: One year after release
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Restrictions: Banned from all Washington State Department of Corrections facilities
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Incident Date: March 2025 at Washington State Penitentiary
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