Smuggling contraband into a prison is a charge that is becoming a more commonly seen charge in Florida. Unfortunately, Tampa criminal defense attorneys are being approached by more individuals facing this charge. This is a new scam occurring in the Tampa Bay area, most commonly occurring in the Polk County jail. For example, a loved one will get a call from a stranger, who says that they will offer protection for their loved one who is currently in custody if they bring a package into the jail during visitation. A slight deviation from the scam involves people being asked to throw packages near work crews on streets and/or near the jail cutting lawns, picking up garbage, etc. In Florida, this charge ultimate results in a felony. It is very unfortunate charge because the accused often has no criminal history and are simply doing what they believe is necessary to protect their husband, wife, son, daughter etc. Additionally, unbeknownst to them law enforcement is often closely watching these inmates for the sort of scams because they routinely monitor telephone calls and letters and have advance notice of the plans. Effectively, these individuals are set up by current inmates and charged with felonies which have obviously very long-lasting implications associated with them because they simply are trying to look out for their family.
If you or someone you know has been contacted by an inmate requesting that they bring in contraband into a county jail/state prison, this is an absolute, dangerous scam. We strongly recommend you contact law enforcement and/or the warden of the facility if you are asked by a stranger to do so. All phone calls going in and going out of the jail are monitored, so they already have the evidence necessary to prosecute the offender in the case. Additionally, they can do things to protect your loved one in custody if they are truly being threatened and exported by request for you or your friends to bring documents to them.
If you or someone you know has questions concerning a charge of introducing contraband to secure facility, contact the Tampa criminal defense attorneys of Hackworth Law for free case consultation we’ve handled many of these cases and will do everything possible to defend you in these matters. We look forward to working with you and appreciate you looking through our blog.