In a recent interview on This Week in Drones with David Lewin, Rob Green, Executive Director of the American Correctional Association (ACA) discusses how drones are used to deliver contraband to correctional facilities. Green characterizes the issue as a “true crisis,” citing its severe threat to security and major disruption to rehabilitation programs. Drones are delivering large quantities of contraband causing lockdowns and endangering both staff and incarcerated individuals. “These are large amounts of drugs, large amounts of cell phones, weapons, things that are extremely dangerous to our occupation that are being delivered into the systems at a great cost. It is a major criminal enterprise.” Green explained.
A critical challenge lies in the inability to control what flies over a prison. “We do not own the airspace over top of correctional facilities,” Green notes. To combat the crisis, he advocates for a multi-pronged approach combining technological solutions, legislative reform, and public awareness campaigns. He referenced successful operations like Georgia’s Operation Skyhawk to demonstrate the potential of coordinated efforts to deter and prosecute offenders.
Green emphasizes the need for education and public understanding, urging recognition of correctional professionals’ dedication: “Our correctional system leaders are doing an incredible job every day.” Collaboration between stakeholders, including lawmakers and technology providers, is vital for cost-effective, sustainable solutions. “We need help,” Green states, calling for collective action to address this growing threat and safeguard rehabilitation efforts.
For more information
https://www.linkedin.com/events/contrabandcrisis-drones-intervi7285027357604626432/comments/
