Search of prison turns up fake guns, explosive device

Lucasville facility investigating ‘very serious situation.’

Ohio authorities COLUMBUS — confiscated three fake handguns, drawings of handguns and a fake explosive device at a maximum-security prison in what they’re calling “a very serious and unique situation.”

An investigation continues of the incident that unfolded Tuesday night at the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility in Lucasville, said prisons spokeswoman JoEllen Smith.

The first item found was a fake explosive device, located in a hole in a shower stall frame, and constructed of grout shavings, copper wire from ear buds, batteries and a small radio, said Smith, spokeswoman for the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.

The weapons, made to resemble Glock handguns, were made of bars of soap, pieces of eyeglasses, battery casings, and carbon paper from legal kits provided to inmates, she said. Parts of a fourth gun were also found.

Events leading to the search began after an inmate called The Associated Press Tuesday afternoon, warning of a potential hostage-taking plot in the works.

The AP contacted the State Highway Patrol, which investigated along with prison authorities.

The inmates involved were placed in restrictive housing and the facility was back to normal Wednesday, said Smith.

“This was a very serious and unique situation,” she said in an email. “We take very seriously any information that suggests there may be weapons within our facilities and immediate actions are taken to ensure the safety and security of the staff and inmates.”

As a high-security prison, Lucasville holds many inmates who have racked up discipline problems in other facilities.