Before You Visit: What Counts as Contraband in Louisiana Prisons and the Risks of Bringing It In

Louisiana law bans contraband on correctional facility property. That covers introducing contraband, attempting to introduce it, or simply possessing it anywhere on facility grounds. You don't get a "benefit of the doubt" just because you're visiting. If something qualifies as contraband and it's on your person when you're on facility grounds (or you try to pass it to an incarcerated person), you're at risk.

The Louisiana DOC lists a number of items that are strictly prohibited as contraband. One of the most common problem areas: cell phones and other communication devices. Contraband also includes illegal drugs or controlled substances, tobacco, cigarettes, and alcohol. Pornographic images are another category people sometimes overlook, but they're explicitly prohibited too. Then there are the items that raise immediate safety and security concerns: any type of weapon or firearm, tools that could aid in escape, explosives, flammable materials, and hazardous chemicals.

Contraband-related actions can follow you, and your loved one, long after a visit ends. Criminal charges are a real possibility. The incarcerated person can also face disciplinary actions, loss of visitation privileges, or an extended sentence. Even if you're just there to see someone and show support, contraband can turn a routine visit into a legal and disciplinary nightmare.

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• ✓ Cell phones or other communication devices
• ✓ Illegal drugs or controlled substances
• ✓ Tobacco
• ✓ Cigarettes
• ✓ Alcohol
• ✓ Pornographic images
• ✓ Any type of weapon or firearm
• ✓ Tools that could aid in escape
• ✓ Any explosive materials
• ✓ Any flammable materials
• ✓ Any hazardous chemicals