Understanding Contraband Rules at Missouri Prisons (What You Absolutely Cannot Bring to MECC)

Missouri takes contraband at correctional facilities seriously. Under Missouri statute 217.360, bringing drugs, alcoholic beverages, firearms, or any other prohibited item into a correctional facility is a criminal offense. Get caught, and staff can refer your case for prosecution. Depending on what you brought, you could face felony charges punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Even if you thought you were "just helping," carrying prohibited items onto prison property can turn into a life-changing legal problem.

Expect a security screening the moment you arrive. When you enter MECC grounds, you, your packages, your children, and your vehicle are all subject to search. Metal detectors are standard at all facilities - think airport security, but stricter. And the consequences if something prohibited turns up? Much higher.

Missouri DOC also uses body scanners at adult institutions, including MECC. Staff, visitors, vendors, contractors, and volunteers all go through them. The goal is straightforward: keep weapons, drugs, and other prohibited items out. If you're visiting, the process will feel routine and structured. That's another reason to bring only what you truly need and leave anything questionable at home.

Contraband rules at MECC go beyond obvious items like weapons. The Missouri DOC Offender Rulebook spells out prohibited behaviors and the corrective process, including what happens when rules are broken. This matters for visitors because what you bring - or try to pass along - can trigger consequences inside the facility and legal consequences outside it.

• ✓ Marijuana
• ✓ Heroin
• ✓ Synthetic drugs
• ✓ “Bath salts”
• ✓ Prescription medications such as Tramadol and Vicodin
• ✓ Tobacco (even if it’s legal outside)
• ✓ Alcohol (even if it’s legal outside)
• ✓ Cannabis (even if it’s legal outside)

1. Don’t touch it or try to deal with it yourself - If you see or suspect contraband, don’t handle it, move it, or confront anyone.
2. Report the concern directly to the institution - Searches can include visitors, children, vehicles, and packages, so let staff handle safety and enforcement on prison grounds.
3. Keep the legal risk in mind - Bringing prohibited items into a correctional facility can lead to referral for prosecution under Missouri statute 217.360 and may be a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison.