South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson joined a coalition of 21 attorneys general in urging the Trump administration on Mar. 30 to grant state and local law enforcement the power to intercept drones delivering contraband into prisons.
The request comes as correctional facilities across the country face increasing challenges from drones dropping narcotics, weapons, cell phones, and other prohibited items. Currently, only certain federal agencies have legal authority to address unauthorized drone activity, leaving correctional officials without tools or jurisdiction to respond quickly.
“I’ve continued to advocate for ways to keep illegal contraband out of our prisons,” Attorney General Wilson said. “The public safety threat caused by these drone drops is one that our local and state authorities have no jurisdiction over. This needs to change so we can keep our facilities and communities safe.”
A letter signed by Wilson and attorneys general from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and West Virginia outlines the risks posed by this trend: “This type of illegal activity is happening all over the country… The introduction of drugs contributes to addiction… Smuggled weapons heighten the risk of assaults… Contraband cell phones enable incarcerated individuals to continue criminal enterprises…” The group recommends granting narrowly defined authority for non-federal agencies while continuing collaboration with federal partners.
Wilson’s office operates as South Carolina’s primary legal advocate and enforcer—handling prosecutions and regulations according to its official website. It supports victims through advocacy resources contributing to community safety according to its official website, enforces laws related to securities and consumer protection according to its official website, collaborates with law enforcement on criminal prosecutions according to its official website, extends operations statewide according to its official website, and has been led by Alan Wilson according to its official website.
Looking ahead, the coalition seeks prompt action from federal authorities so that state-level agencies can better protect correctional facilities from evolving threats.
