What 'Contraband' Actually Means at SCORE Jail — Definition and Consequences

SCORE uses Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 289-02-020 for its definition: contraband is any substance or item not specifically permitted by jail administration. This includes items that weren't provided by the jail, items that were provided but have been altered or used for something other than their intended purpose, and even excess quantities. Having too much of a permitted item can get you in trouble.

What happens next depends on what’s found and where. At SCORE, items considered contraband can be returned to the sender, placed into the inmate’s property, or investigated as a possible criminal violation.

SCORE's policy is clear: anyone who attempts to bring contraband into the jail will be arrested and prosecuted under RCW 9A.76 (Introducing Contraband I, II, III). Note that attempts count - not just successful introductions. Don't gamble at the door, during a visit, or through any other contact with the facility.

A conviction for introducing contraband can result in anywhere from about 3 months in jail to 12 years in prison, depending on the severity and your criminal history. Even if the item seems minor to you, the consequences can be life-changing.

Mail and Visits Examples

• ✓ Expect screening: all incoming and outgoing mail to/from SCORE Jail will be opened and checked for contraband.
• ✓ Don’t mail money: cash, personal checks, and money orders are unacceptable in inmate mail.
• ✓ Don’t include mailing supplies: stamps, stamped items, paper, and envelopes aren’t allowed - incarcerated people must buy these through commissary.
• ✓ Label it clearly: mail must include your return address, and you should include the inmate’s name and name number to help it get delivered correctly.

Publications trip people up more than you'd expect. SCORE only allows new softback books, magazines, or newspapers sent directly from the publisher or a licensed retailer. Publications sent from individuals aren't accepted, and hardbound books aren't allowed at all. Photos are permitted, but inmates can only have six at a time - any extras go into their stored property.

When staff suspect contraband, SCORE's policies outline several possible outcomes. The item might be returned to the sender, placed into the inmate's property, or investigated as a criminal violation. If SCORE believes someone attempted to bring contraband into the jail, that person will be arrested and prosecuted under RCW 9A.76.