What to Expect During Security Screening at Angola: Searches, Metal Detectors, K-9s, and the Cell Phone Rule
Security screening at Angola can feel intense your first time, but it's predictable once you know the routine. Expect your vehicle, belongings, and person to be screened. And take the cell phone rule seriously.
Be ready for searches before you're allowed to enter. Angola's rules permit staff to search all visitors, including minors. That means your property, your car, and your person. The goal is keeping contraband out, so even for a short visit, plan for screening as part of the process.
Screening goes beyond a quick pat down. You'll walk through a metal detector, and staff may use ion scanning equipment. K-9 inspections are also common for property and vehicle checks.
Plan your parking ahead of time. Personal vehicles must be parked in the Front Gate parking lot (or another designated area) unless you're authorized to drive in. If you leave your vehicle unattended, lock it, roll up the windows, and take your keys.
Expect a check on the way out too. Front Gate Security Officers inspect vehicles leaving the institution, including the trunk. Build a little extra time into your exit so you're not rushed.
Cell phones are treated as serious contraband in Louisiana prisons. The rule is strict: incarcerated people are not allowed to possess or use a cellular telephone. If you're visiting, the safest approach is to keep phones and anything phone-related out of the facility environment entirely.
Cell phone warning: Do not send or bring a cell phone for someone who is incarcerated. Doing so can lead to prosecution for introduction of contraband, with penalties that may include a fine up to $2,000 and up to five years in prison.
Refuse to be searched and your visit ends before it starts. Visitors who don't comply with search procedures can be denied entry or have their visit terminated. If you're uncomfortable with the process, pause and ask staff what's required rather than refusing mid-screening.
Breaking visitation rules can have lasting consequences. A violation may result in termination of the visit, loss of the incarcerated person's visiting privileges, and a ban from the institution or its grounds. Depending on what happened, criminal charges are also possible, including prosecution for bringing contraband like a cell phone.
Practical Tips
- ✓ Bring only what’s allowed into the visiting area, including a wallet or clutch purse with no more than $300 cash per family.
- ✓ Park in the Front Gate parking lot (or other designated area) unless you’re authorized to drive in.
- ✓ If you leave your car unattended, lock it with the windows up and remove your keys.
- ✓ Expect searches of your property, vehicle, and person, and expect a vehicle (including trunk) check when leaving.
Quick reminder: Never send or bring a cell phone for someone who is incarcerated. It can trigger criminal prosecution, with penalties that may include a fine up to $2,000 and up to five years in prison.
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