Managing contraband cell phones in correctional facilities is crucial for maintaining security and ensuring the safety of incarcerated people, staff, and the public. Implementing interdiction strategies to achieve this goal, however, is often complicated because of the complexity of evolving threats, regulatory and statutory restrictions, and the need for precise coordination among several stakeholders. Choosing a solution that best fits an agency’s needs and balancing interdiction plans with organizational priorities add additional challenges.

Derived from lessons learned through direct engagement with state correctional agencies and field experts, this step-by-step practitioner-oriented guidebook provides structured guidance, practical resources, and standardized procedures to help agencies navigate these complexities and implement interdiction solutions to combat contraband cell phones.

Who should use this guidebook?

This guidebook is designed to help correctional administrators understand how to identify and implement a comprehensive strategy for contraband cell phone interdiction, which may include various technological and nontechnological approaches to finding, disabling, and removing these devices from their facilities. The guide also provides useful information to policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders interested in learning more about the solutions for contraband cell phones.

How is this guidebook organized?

This guidebook is organized around 10 steps spanning four phases: preparation, procurement, implementation, and monitoring and maintenance. Whether agencies are just starting or have already made progress, they can begin at the step that best matches their current situation. This guide can be used as a tool to navigate the process efficiently and effectively.