TDOC Promotes Awareness of Contraband Interdiction Efforts

NASHVILLE - As part of our ongoing efforts to advance our non-negotiable mission of enhancing public safety, the Tennessee Department of Correction strives to be a good community partner. It is with that in mind we wish to alert the public to the dangers of contraband. Contraband is defined as unauthorized cell phones, drugs and weapons. TDOC wants to highlight our efforts in fighting those who would seek to compromise the safety and security of our prisons, employees and offenders.

Contraband is a national issue that affects prisons, jails and correctional institutions across the country. The introduction of contraband of any kind to any correctional environment poses a threat to the safety of both that institution and the general public. It is for this reason TDOC works closely with our criminal justice partners and other correctional agencies around the country to combat the introduction of illegal items and prosecute those who attempt to do so. This includes ongoing work with the Association of State Correctional Administrators (ASCA) to ask the FCC to reevaluate regulations on technology which would limit cell phone transmissions from within prison facilities.

In addition to this ongoing collaboration, TDOC continues to advance its own anti-contraband efforts. Our officers are vigilant 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Sweeps are performed frequently and all individuals, materials and vehicles entering our facilities are thoroughly screened. Additionally, agents with our Office of Investigations and Compliance analyze intelligence to develop leads and when appropriate make arrests. The Department also utilizes K-9 officers trained in drug detection to find contraband at our facilities across the state. Anyone with information about potential security concerns to our properties is also urged to call our 24-hour anonymous tip line, 1-844-TDC-FIND (1-844-832-3463).

“The introduction of contraband into one of our prisons by anyone for any reason is a felony offense and a threat to the safety of our team and the public,” says TDOC Commissioner Tony Parker. “That’s why it absolutely will not be tolerated and we work with local law enforcement to vigorously prosecute anyone who attempts it.”

The unwavering mission of the Tennessee Department of Correction is to operate safe and secure prisons and provide effective community supervision in order to enhance public safety. To learn more about these and other efforts, please visit our website at www.tn.gov/correction.