The influx of drugs into prisons has surged by 13% this year, in a concerning trend, according to recent Corrections data.
The most recent figures, revealed by 1News, show over 6000 contraband incidents so far in 2023, marking an increase of more than 700 cases from the previous year.
The increase in contraband discoveries has put pressure on prison workers as inmates resort to various tactics - including the use of cell phones and coercion.
Corrections officials attribute the spike to audacious smuggling attempts, relaxation of Covid visiting restrictions, and pressure exerted on inmates' families to partake in smuggling.
Of particular concern to authorities are drug-smuggling visitors, who are often caught out by body and car searches. The latter has led to the discovery of substantial amounts of contraband, including narcotics valued at over $200,000.
Chief custodial officer Neil Beales told 1News about the profound challenges posed by drugs within the prison system.
"Chemical alterations induced by these substances significantly escalate the risk levels, potentially leading to violent behaviour, overdoses, and increased dangers for both inmates and staff."
Beales stressed the risks that families coerced into smuggling face.
"Often they are the ones who are being forced to bring things in for their family member, who are in prison. It puts them in a very dangerous position," he said.
"Many of them don’t want to be doing this, but they feel compelled to do it because of whatever pressures they are facing.
"It could be through gangs. It could be through personal pressure, it puts them in a very difficult position, both criminally, and puts them in a very difficult position financially.
"It’s very risky for them to get involved and it risks them entering the criminal justice system themselves."
The rise coincides with inmates leveraging external networks to facilitate the illegal trafficking of drugs inside prisons.
Ahead of the holiday season, Corrections officials are issuing a stern warning to the public that it's intensifying efforts to curb smuggling activities.
1News met dog handlers Hannah and Willis on patrol, who shed light on the methods used to sneak contraband into prisons. Patrolling the prison perimeters, officers work with dogs trained to detect phones and narcotics intended for inmates.
Hannah emphasises the evolving strategies employed by smugglers, citing instances where they attempt to flood specific areas with contraband and then adapt their approaches when thwarted.
“The times have changed a little bit. Gone are the days where it's predominantly cannabis and tobacco, and now we are starting to find Class A, meth, heroin, cocaine," she said.
A high-profile gang member was recently sentenced for selling drugs to other prisoners.
A phone confiscated from his prison cell showed he made 450 calls and sent over 3000 texts to organise three deliveries. In total in the incident, six grams of meth and 85 grams of cannabis were smuggled in.
In the face of mounting challenges, Corrections officials reiterate a resounding message: "Just don't do it."
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