Expands the definition of dangerous contraband to include telecommunications and electronic recording devices

Reasons for support

Correctional systems throughout the world are witnessing the proliferation of contraband cell phones and other telecommunications devices. While these devices are getting smaller in size, the number of features that they have are ever-expanding. Today's cell phone capabilities go well beyond allowing a user to make a call, which is dangerous enough in a prison situation. Cell phones have the ability to send and receive text messages, record and transmit photo and video, all of which can have catastrophic consequences within a prison setting. Inmates can circumvent the safeguards and controls imposed on their communications, including monitoring of call content or call numbers, call blocking, and prohibitions against all calls where they pose a threat to safety and security. With such unlimited access, inmates can organize escapes by alerting outside individuals to prisoners' movements, or sending images of secure areas. Additionally, inmates may use cell phones to harass witnesses and victims, interfere with juries, and maintain outside illegal activity. Compounding the problem, the FCC prohibits the common methods of interfering or blocking, which would help to reduce the effectiveness of cell phones within the prisons.

A frightening and very real example of what can occur has happened in Brazil Cell phones were smuggled into the prison and used to organize riots at 29 prisons. The result: 15 people were killed and 8,000 guards and relatives were held hostage. In Ontario, an inmate was charged with running a drug ring from prison. Britain, Thailand, India, and Japan have all reported incidents of cell phones being discovered in their prisons. And even in New York City, 25 telecommunication devices have been found in Department of Correction facilities since 2005.

In the United States there are at least ten states that are contemplating enacting or have already adopted statutes making it a crime to possess or introduce electronic devices into their detention facilities: Arkansas, Colorado, Tennessee, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Ohio, Louisiana, Texas, and Illinois.

It is critical to public safety that all possible measures are advanced to deter the introduction and possession of this type of contraband. This bill would ensure that such conduct is punishable as a felony. Currently, Penal Article 205 (promoting Prison Contraband) is a misdemeanor unless the item introduced or possessed is "dangerous contraband", which is defined as "contraband which is capable of such use as may endanger the safety or security of a detention facility or any person therein" and punishable as a D felony. While it is beyond debate that telecommunications devices and electronic recording devices fit within that definition, it is important to eliminate any ambiguity in connection with the interpretation of the statute. This proposal sends an important message to the public and the inmate population that promoting such contraband will not be tolerated and will be punishable as a felony.

Accordingly, the Mayor urges the earliest possible favorable consideration of this proposal by the Legislature.

Prior legislative history

S.4330 of 2007

Fiscal implications for state and local governments

Savings will ultimately result from more effective efforts to eliminate unneeded regulatory mandates on businesses and local governments in the state.

Effective date

15th day after it shall have become law.