Introducing contraband in Colorado’s detention facilities is a serious offense. When someone brings prohibited items beyond what inmates are allowed to possess, criminal charges can follow. This means bringing materials into any location where individuals are in custody. Earlier this month, a woman was charged with introducing contraband after being picked up for DUI and hiding methamphetamines on her person. Allegations of bringing prohibited items into a jail or prison require contacting an introducing contraband lawyer right away.
Colorado’s Introducing Contraband Law
Violations of Colorado’s introducing contraband law are found in C.R.S. 18-8-203. Someone commits this offense in Colorado if they:
- bring prohibited materials such as dangerous instruments, alcohol, marijuana, controlled substances, or other common items,
- into any detention facility where people are lawfully held in custody
There are a great deal of items that qualify as contraband in addition to the items above. Firearms, knives, sharpened items, keys, money, drug paraphernalia, electronic devices, and even obscene material are considered contraband in Colorado’s jails and prisons. If an item could harm an inmate, other inmates, or security personnel law enforcement will look to charge. It isn’t uncommon for an inmate to be charged with possession of contraband by an inmate in these situations as well.
Is Introducing Contraband a Felony in Colorado?
When someone brings materials other than drugs, alcohol, or a dangerous instrument into a jail or prison in Colorado, a class 6 felony applies. Conviction can result in:
- 12 – 18 months in the Colorado Department of Corrections,
- up to $100,000 in fines,
- 1 year of parole
However, bringing alcohol, marijuana, controlled substances, or weapons into a detention center is a class 4 felony. Penalties can include:
- 2 – 6 years in prison,
- a maximum fine of $500,000,
- 3 years of parole
Colorado Introducing Contraband Lawyer
Providing prohibited items to an inmate has steep consequences throughout Colorado. Restrictions are in place in our county jails and state prisons that are meant to protect others in the detention centers. Sometimes facility employees try to smuggle items to inmates. Other situations involve inmates trying to obtain materials from visitors, family, or friends. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free initial consultation if you’re facing a charge of introducing contraband. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing allegations in Colorado.
If you or someone you know is facing a charge of introducing contraband in Colorado, be smart. Contact the skilled criminal lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Matthew Ansley