A state inmate at Baxter County Jail is facing a felony charge after allegedly receiving prescription medication from another inmate.According to jail reports, on Oct. 15, jailers noticed that inmate Ryan Gayer was acting unusually, including slurred speech, pin-point pupils, and shaking. A preliminary alcohol test showed a blood alcohol level of .000, prompting further investigation.
A 12-panel drug test administered to Gayer showed irregularities in the cocaine panel, and a subsequent 17-panel test indicated a faint positive result for buprenorphine. During a follow-up search of Gayer’s belongings, jail staff found fragments of a peach-colored pill, which matched the medication prescribed to another inmate, Matthew Ford.
Ford was interviewed by Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division personnel. After initially denying involvement, Ford admitted to providing a buprenorphine pill to Gayer by placing it on a dinner tray. Tests on the pill fragments in Gayer’s possession confirmed the presence of a buprenorphine binder, and the remaining fragments were sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for further analysis.
Gayer was held in isolation pending the investigation, and authorities have coordinated with the state 309 program and local parole officers.
Gayer has been charged with possession of a controlled substance, a felony, and remains in custody while the investigation continues.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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