Lawmakers push for tougher penalties on prison drug use
September 25, 2024 | General Government Operations and Appropriations , Legislative, Guam
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During a recent government meeting, lawmakers discussed a significant legislative proposal aimed at addressing drug and alcohol use within correctional facilities. The proposed Bill 293-37 seeks to criminalize the act of being under the influence of illegal substances while incarcerated, a situation currently unregulated under existing laws.
The Director of the Department of Corrections (DOC), Fred Berdaglio, testified in support of the bill, highlighting that the absence of penalties for inmates found under the influence undermines rehabilitation efforts and poses safety risks for both staff and detainees. The bill proposes that if inmates are convicted of being under the influence, they would face additional prison time, thereby creating a deterrent against contraband use.
Concerns were raised regarding the implications of the bill, particularly about potential entrapment issues related to the Guam Police Department's role in detaining individuals already under the influence at the time of their arrest. Amendments were made to address these concerns, ensuring that the bill does not inadvertently lead to legal complications for law enforcement.
Several senators expressed their support for the bill, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations to combat the ongoing issue of contraband in prisons, which has been exacerbated by overcrowding and inadequate supervision. Reports of significant drug finds within the facilities, including methamphetamine and firearms, underscore the urgency of the proposed legislation.
While the bill is seen as a necessary step towards improving safety and accountability within correctional facilities, some lawmakers suggested that the penalties for violations may need to be strengthened further to ensure they are effective deterrents. The discussion also touched on the broader implications of drug use in prisons, with some senators advocating for a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation and safety.
The bill is expected to move forward, with lawmakers eager to finalize its provisions and enhance its effectiveness in curbing substance abuse among inmates.
The Director of the Department of Corrections (DOC), Fred Berdaglio, testified in support of the bill, highlighting that the absence of penalties for inmates found under the influence undermines rehabilitation efforts and poses safety risks for both staff and detainees. The bill proposes that if inmates are convicted of being under the influence, they would face additional prison time, thereby creating a deterrent against contraband use.
Concerns were raised regarding the implications of the bill, particularly about potential entrapment issues related to the Guam Police Department's role in detaining individuals already under the influence at the time of their arrest. Amendments were made to address these concerns, ensuring that the bill does not inadvertently lead to legal complications for law enforcement.
Several senators expressed their support for the bill, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations to combat the ongoing issue of contraband in prisons, which has been exacerbated by overcrowding and inadequate supervision. Reports of significant drug finds within the facilities, including methamphetamine and firearms, underscore the urgency of the proposed legislation.
While the bill is seen as a necessary step towards improving safety and accountability within correctional facilities, some lawmakers suggested that the penalties for violations may need to be strengthened further to ensure they are effective deterrents. The discussion also touched on the broader implications of drug use in prisons, with some senators advocating for a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation and safety.
The bill is expected to move forward, with lawmakers eager to finalize its provisions and enhance its effectiveness in curbing substance abuse among inmates.
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