New X-ray scanner stops illegal items entering Buckley Hall prison

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

HMP Buckley Hall, from above

An advanced X-ray body scanner has been installed to prevent illegal items such as drugs, weapons and phones, entering HMP Buckley Hall.

The innovative equipment being rolled out across England and Wales is part of a government package to boost security in prisons and crack down on crime behind bars.

The technology, developed specifically for the prison service, allows staff to see instantly whether prisoners are attempting to smuggle in illegal contraband.

Any illegal item detected would have been destined for the prison wings, fuelling the illicit economy and potential violence.

An additional 22 prisons have had the game-changing equipment installed in the last six months, meaning 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.

Prisons Minister, Alex Chalk MP, said: “The new technology is having a hugely positive impact, stemming the flow of contraband into jails and allowing staff to focus on rehabilitation.

“The scanners form part of our wider aim to transform prisons, stepping up security to cut crime and ultimately better protecting the public.”

HMP Buckley Hall Governor, Robbie Durgan, said: “The scanner is a fantastic deterrent and an invaluable tool being used to prevent illicit items entering HMP Buckley Hall.”

The cutting-edge technology is being installed at prisons identified as most at risk of smuggling.