When sentencing an inmate for illegal possession of contraband, the judge must tack on the sentence to the one that the inmate is currently serving. Prohibited items include objects that threaten order or security in the prison or the safety of an individual, as well as items not approved by the prison warden.Ĭonsecutive sentences. For other 'prohibited items,' a person faces up to six months' incarceration. When the contraband is alcohol, currency, or a cell phone with service, the crime carries a penalty of up to one year in prison. Felony penalties of up to 5, 10, or 20 years in prison apply when the contraband includes certain illegal drugs, firearms, weapons, ammunition, or items intended for use as a weapon or to aid an escape. The penalties vary depending on the type of contraband involved. bring or introduce contraband into a federal prison or attempt to do so.possess contraband in federal prison, or.Federal Laws and Penalties for Contraband in Prison Examples of dangerous contraband include weapons, objects that could be used as a weapon (such as a sharpened piece of plastic), architectural drawings of a prison, and large amounts of drugs that are intended to be sold inside the prison. For example, a state might define dangerous contraband as any item that can be used to cause death or serious injury or help a prisoner escape, or that poses a threat to the prison's security. Dangerous contraband generally refers to anything that could be used to endanger the safety or security of the prison or anyone in the prison. Some states' laws distinguish between 'dangerous contraband' and other prohibited items. In most states, prison contraband crimes carry the same penalties regardless of who committed the offense-an inmate, visitor, family, friend, or another person.

Mailing such items or otherwise trying to get them into a prison facility is also a crime. For example, prison rules might prohibit a visitor from bringing food, clothing, or SIM cards into prison. These rules also prohibit the public from introducing certain items to a prison. Prison rules generally prohibit inmates from possessing weapons, alcohol, paper or coin money, cell phones, and other items not prohibited to the general public.

The definition of contraband, however, is much broader in prisons, jails, and other types of correctional facilities. What Is Contraband?Ĭontraband refers to anything that is illegal to possess or make under state or federal law, such as illegal drugs or counterfeit money. Before bringing or sending anything to a prison, check prison rules or with the prison authorities to make sure it's permitted. Prisoners and visitors who violate these rules can get into serious trouble, including being charged with a crime. However, prisons have very strict rules about what items can and cannot be brought into, or even mailed to, the prison. If you have a family member or friend who's incarcerated, it might seem like a nice idea to bring them food, money, or gifts when you visit them in jail or prison.

Contraband in penal institution