While Tennessee Department of Corrections has made progress in reducing contraband in state prisons, officials said drones that smuggle cell phones, drugs and other prohibited items into facilities remain a significant problem.
Correction officials requested funding for department-operated drones to patrol prison perimeters and deter unauthorized drone flights, as well as to strengthen overall surveillance.
Sen. Tom Hatcher, a retired 10-year veteran sheriff's deputy in Blount County, introduced Senate Bill 1631 Jan. 14 to allow state prison guards to take down the illegal drones.
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