The ’emerging threat’ of drones around NSW prisons has led to a state government crackdown.
Anyone caught flying a drone near a jail could land themselves behind bars for up to two years, according to new laws aimed at deterring people from smuggling contraband into prisons, according to the Daily Telegraph.
The growing number of drone incidents have included attempts to traffic in phones, remote devices and tobacco in Goulburn’s notorious maximum security prison.
Since 2014, 13 drones were found within prison complexes and more than 400 steroid capsules were recently dropped at Lithgow prison.
The ’emerging threat’ of drones around NSW prisons has led to a state government crackdown (Pictured: An aerial view of Goulburn prison)
Attempts to traffic in contraband were discovered in Goulburn prison, with 13 drones found within prison complexes across the state since 2014 (stock image)
A further 24 drones have been sighted near prisons, according to departmental records over the same period.
Drones have also been sighted at Kempsey, Bathurst, Goulburn and Silverwater Women’s prisons.
Corrective Services Minister David Elliot will bring in strict new laws creating two offences related to the use of drones.
A ban on possessing drones in or at a prison, as well as operating or using one up to 400 feet, or 122m, above an adult or juvenile jail will be introduced later this year.
‘Drones pose an unacceptable risk to the safety and security of our correctional officers and prison system,’ Mr Elliot said.
A ban on possessing drones in or at a prison, as well as operating or using one up to 400 feet above an adult or juvenile jail will be introduced later this year (Goulburn Correctional Centre)
‘This is an emerging threat and it is vital we act now to send a clear message to offenders that we have them in our sights.
‘This is new technology so the NSW Liberals and Nationals have taken the time to ensure we have a comprehensive solution.’
Victoria has already brought in new laws and opposition prisons spokesman Guy Zangari said the NSW Liberal government had been slow to act.
‘Not only do drones bring in contraband like drugs and mobile phones, they put the safety of inmates and Corrective Services officers at risk,’ Mr Zangari said.
‘We will believe the legislation when we see it.’
Since 2014, 13 drones were found within prison complexes and more than 400 steroid capsules were recently dropped at Lithgow prison (Pictured: Long Bay Prison)