Contraband Control in Jails and Detention Facilities
Online · Nov 4, 2026 · 2 hours · $150.00
Instructor
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Description
Contraband represents one of the most persistent security threats facing correctional and detention facilities. Drugs, weapons, unauthorized communication devices, alcohol, tobacco, unauthorized medication, altered property, and other prohibited items can threaten the safety and security of inmates, staff, visitors, and the public.
The National Institute of Justice identifies contraband as including illegal items such as drugs and weapons as well as items prohibited within a particular correctional environment, such as cellular telephones. Contraband can contribute to violence, drug abuse, continued criminal activity, escape-related activity, and other security threats.
Modern contraband control must therefore extend beyond simply finding prohibited items after they enter the facility. Effective contraband control requires a comprehensive system of prevention, detection, interdiction, investigation, documentation, and follow-through.
Recent NIJ-sponsored research examining jails and prisons identified five major external entry points for contraband:
Incarcerated people entering or returning to the facility
Staff, volunteers, and facility personnel
Visitors
Letters and packages
Items introduced over the perimeter, including drone-delivered contraband
This course provides detention personnel with an understanding of the contraband threat, common points of introduction, staff responsibilities, search and detection principles, contraband-related intelligence, documentation, and the importance of maintaining a strong security culture.
The National Institute of Justice identifies contraband as including illegal items such as drugs and weapons as well as items prohibited within a particular correctional environment, such as cellular telephones. Contraband can contribute to violence, drug abuse, continued criminal activity, escape-related activity, and other security threats.
Modern contraband control must therefore extend beyond simply finding prohibited items after they enter the facility. Effective contraband control requires a comprehensive system of prevention, detection, interdiction, investigation, documentation, and follow-through.
Recent NIJ-sponsored research examining jails and prisons identified five major external entry points for contraband:
Incarcerated people entering or returning to the facility
Staff, volunteers, and facility personnel
Visitors
Letters and packages
Items introduced over the perimeter, including drone-delivered contraband
This course provides detention personnel with an understanding of the contraband threat, common points of introduction, staff responsibilities, search and detection principles, contraband-related intelligence, documentation, and the importance of maintaining a strong security culture.
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