New Jersey Corrections Agency Makes Changes From the Ground Up

This article discusses the State of New Jersey's use of canines to find contraband cellphones hidden in its correctional facilities. The policy was developed by a task force established by the New Jersey Department of Corrections in 2010 to study new approaches for combatting contraband cellphones. One of the policy changes included changes in canine search patterns. The task force began looking at the basics of the problem, examining methods of searching and problematic facilities, and specific areas within those facilities that could be a source of the problem. Improved security efforts resulting from the task force included new fencing and lighting, upgrading equipment and procedures used for searching, and installation of cameras to ensure proper supervision during exit and entry of the inmate population. Additional efforts included educating staff on the dangers of contraband cellphones and changes to way that staff entered and exited the facilities.