Most mobile phones are smuggled in by prison staff, who often do not have to go through security as rigorously as visitors. Security of staff is often less intense because this would be time-consuming on the part of the staff, unionized prison employees are paid for this time, and it would thus increase the overall cost of operations,also, prison staff are often reluctant to diligently search their own co-workers to avoid agitating their colleagues and damaging workplace morale.
More rarely, mobile phones are smuggled in by visitors, who must undergo tougher security checks, by inmates who are granted temporary leaves of absence, or by outsiders who establish contact with inmates alongside the prison fence and/or deliver them using drones.
Once inside prison walls, the cell phone jammer end up in the hands of inmates who purchase them with cash, which is also contraband in most prisons. Black market prices vary by prison, and can be up to US$1000.
While some prisoners use their mobile devices simply for harmless communication or web browsing, others use them for illegal activity. These may include gang control, taunting witnesses, planning escapes, or arrangement of other serious crimes. prisoners may also use smart phones to gather intelligence on prison staff and to coordinate clandestine activity within the facility.
Not all inmates use mobile phones for harmful purposes. Many inmates use them to hold innocuous conversations with family and friends. In South Carolina in September 2012, an inmate using an illegal mobile phone jammer alerted authorities about , leading to that officer's rescue.
Laws have been passed in various jurisdictions, placing penalties on inmates who possess mobile devices as well as staff who smuggle them in. Inmate penalties range from loss of privileges and behavior credits to additional sentencing.
The problem of cell phones in prisons is multifaceted and includes challenges related to security, contraband control, and prisoner management. As highlighted in the article, the smuggling of cell phones into correctional facilities is a widespread problem, often facilitated by staff exploiting gaps in security protocols. However, visitors and even prisoners themselves also play a role in bringing these devices into prisons.
Impact of Cell Phones in Prisons
The presence of cell phones poses a significant security risk inside prisons. Prisoners can use these devices to coordinate criminal activity inside and outside the facility. Gang leaders may control their members, organize illegal operations, or use smuggled cell phones to intimidate witnesses. In addition, cell phones can be used to obtain sensitive information, compromise the integrity of staff, or plan a prison break, thereby undermining the safety and order of the prison environment.
Efforts to combat the influx of cell phones require strict contraband control measures. However, the secrecy of smuggling activities and the adaptability of prisoners pose challenges to detection and interdiction. The lucrative black market for smuggled cell phones incentivizes the continued operation of smuggling despite penalties and surveillance measures.
For prison administrators, managing the presence of cell phones among prisoners is a complex operational challenge. Balancing security needs with the rights of prisoners to remain in touch with their families can be delicate. While some inmates use cell phones for harmless communication, others exploit them for illegal activities that complicate disciplinary measures and rehabilitation efforts.
The prevalence of cell phones in prisons presents multifaceted challenges that require a comprehensive and coordinated response. By addressing security gaps, implementing effective contraband control measures, and investing in inmate rehabilitation programs, prisons can mitigate the impact of cell phones and maintain safety and security within correctional facilities.
