SB 440
Increasing penalty for transporting telecommunication devices into jails
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill increases the penalties for bringing telecommunication devices, such as cell phones, into West Virginia jails and correctional facilities. It establishes that transporting such devices with the intent to aid an escape, or delivering items to inmates without authorization, can result in felony charges. The bill also addresses the possession of dangerous materials, weapons, and other prohibited items by inmates, outlining enhanced penalties for these offenses. Specifically, transporting a telecommunication device is now a felony.
Key provisions
- Transporting telecommunication devices into a correctional facility is now a felony.
- Delivering unauthorized items (money, communication, merchandise) to inmates is a misdemeanor.
- Possession of dangerous materials, weapons, or implements of escape by inmates is a felony.
- Persuading an inmate to escape or engage in insubordination is a misdemeanor.
- Purchasing or accepting items manufactured within a correctional facility without authorization is a misdemeanor.
- The definition of ‘telecommunication device’ is expanded to include various electronic communication instruments.
- The definition of ‘implement of escape’ is broadened to include items that could facilitate an escape.
- A new definition of ‘dangerous material’ is included.
Who is affected
- Inmates of jails and correctional facilities
- Correctional facility staff (wardens, administrators)
- Individuals transporting items into correctional facilities
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