Clearfield Co., PA (WJAC) — Authorities with the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections say a staff member at SCI Houtzdale is facing charges, accused of smuggling contraband into the facility.

Authorities say they began investigating 41-year-old Neil Rudy after prison officials say they received information that he had been providing contraband to a "network of inmates."

Upon further investigation, officials learned that Rudy, who worked as a food service employee for the prison, was allegedly paid over $10,000 to smuggle Suboxone and synthetic cannabinoids into the facility.

According to the affidavit, Rudy confessed to being a part of the smuggling operation and said that he "got involved" after an inmate allegedly overheard him discussing his financial troubles.

Authorities say Rudy was allegedly provided with the contraband by a man from State College known as "Dough."

Rudy has since been released on unsecured bail and faces charges of dealing in the proceeds of unlawful activity and criminal use of a communication device.

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