Private investigator arrested for bringing drugs into Merced County jail, sheriff says
A 66-year-old private investigator was arrested last month for trying to bring drugs and contraband into the John Latorraca Correctional Center in Merced County.
The Merced County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest in a Facebook post on Saturday night.
On May 26, the private investigator, Darren Hise, arrived at the jail to speak with an incarcerated individual. Hise was court-contracted to assist the person, who is currently representing themselves.
During a routine search inside the facility, custodial deputies located six concealed bindles hidden in Hise’s waistband.
Inside the bundles, deputies found about 150 grams of concentrated cannabis and about 30 grams of tobacco.
Hise was arrested and booked into the Merced County Jail for knowingly bringing drugs and contraband into a correctional facility, transportation of concentrated cannabis, conspiracy to commit a felony and gang enhancements, the post said.
The case is still under investigation. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Merced County Sheriff’s Office at 209-385-7445.
This story was originally published June 6, 2026 at 9:33 PM.
