Discussion on Cell Phones in Prisons with Maryland's Secretary Gary Maynard

The issue of contraband cell phones in prisons is one that CTIA, Congress, FCC, state policymakers, prison officials and public safety are working together to find the best solution that gets the devices out of the prisons without causing problems for public safety or legitimate users. 

This morning, Maryland Morning with Sheilah Kast (WYPR 88.1 FM, the Baltimore NPR affiliate) aired an interview with Secretary Gary Maynard from the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services and me.

While Secretary Maynard and I agreed that getting cell phones out of prisoners' hands was the top priority, CTIA strongly believes that jamming technology is not the answer.  Instead, we believe cell detection and managed access technologies are better since they are:

1) lawful
2) currently available
3) do not cause interference for  public safety officials or legitimate consumers 
4) allow  law enforcement  to gather intelligence through wiretapping .

We also strongly believe that there needs to be tougher penalties for individuals who possess, provide or support contraband devices.  

You can listen to my interview on WYPR 88.1 FM here, and I hope you’ll take some time to learn more about Contraband Cell Phones in Prisons.