Three people have been charged with money laundering and organized crime in Harris County after authorities uncovered a drug smuggling operation run from within the county jail.
Nathanael Campbell, Lativia Bailey, and Joshua Owens have been charged for their involvement in an organized criminal activity and money laundering operation within a Harris County correctional facility.
Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, along with Assistant District Attorney Kim Smith from the Public Corruption division and representatives from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, held a news conference to announce criminal charges related to a major ongoing money laundering investigation at the Harris County Jail.
According to court documents, between October 15, 2022, and June 27, 2024, the trio engaged in money laundering by conducting transactions involving funds between $2,500 to $30,000 from the sale of controlled substances. Owens, who was already incarcerated in the Harris County Jail, managed the smuggling and sale of synthetic cannabinoids through laced paper.
These transactions were facilitated by Campbell and Bailey through their Cash App accounts.
A search of Owens’ cell on March 27, 2024 led to the discovery of contraband, including ten sheets of paper discolored by synthetic cannabinoids. Forensic tests confirmed the presence of these illegal substances. Further investigation into phone calls and financial records revealed that Campbell frequently deposited money into Owens’ commissary account, while Bailey’s Cash App account showed suspicious activity linked to the scheme.
Owens was held in the Harris County Jail after being charged with the 2008 murder of Marsha Mitchell, whose body was found at a construction site.
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Campbell, Bailey, and Owens now face multiple charges, including money laundering and engaging in organized criminal activity.
Bailey’s mugshot has not been released at this time.