Condom used to hide synthetic urine leads to arrests

A woman and a man are facing charges after authorities say an attempt was made to cheat a required drug screening at the Baxter County court complex.According to a report from the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened Jan. 2, 2026, when 43-year-old Mandy Ramirez arrived at the court complex for a mandatory drug test. Investigators say Ramirez brought a condom containing either synthetic urine or another person’s urine.
Authorities allege Ramirez handed the condom and a paper towel to her friend, 72-year-old Dwight Byrd, who concealed the items in his pocket in an effort to avoid detection by probation staff. Byrd initially denied involvement but later turned over the items, according to the report.

Byrd has been charged with tampering with physical evidence and obstructing governmental operations. Ramirez is charged with tampering with physical evidence, obstructing governmental operations, and intent to defraud a drug or alcohol test.

Ramirez is being held in the Baxter County Detention Center on a $985 bond. Byrd was released after posting an $820 bond.

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