A new X-ray body scanner is already stopping illegal items entering HMP Guys Marsh.

Items including drugs and mobile phones have been detected thanks to the technology, developed specifically for the Prison Service, which allows staff to see instantly whether prisoners are attempting to smuggle in illegal contraband. The illegal items detected would have been destined for the prison wings, fuelling the illicit economy and potential violence.

A total of 51 prisons across England and Wales now have the technology, which has collectively already stopped more than 3,500 illegal items from getting into the hands of prisoners.

HMP Guys Marsh Governor Ian Walters said:
“The scanner will reduce the availability of mobile phones and drugs, making HMP Guys Marsh safer for all who live and work here.”

The cutting-edge technology
is being installed at prisons
identified as most at risk of
smuggling. The equipment
was funded by the
Government’s £2.75 billion
commitment to transform the prison estate. This includes:

• £100 million to bolster prison security, clamping down on the weapons, drugs and mobile phones that fuel violence, self-harm and crime behind bars.
• £2.5 billion to provide 10,000 additional prison places and create modern, efficient jails that rehabilitate offenders, reduce reoffending and keep the public safe.
• £156 million to tackle the most pressing maintenance issues to create safe and decent conditions for offender rehabilitation.

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