It happens. A friend or loved one is in jail and asks for something to help take the edge off the experience. Maybe it is just a joint or a beer. Seems like it’s not too serious of a thing. Right? So you comply. However, carrying drugs or alcohol into jail is a crime in Sapulpa, Oklahoma.
By trying to help your friend in this way, you could end up in trouble yourself. All jails have rules about bringing in contraband. And in Oklahoma, bringing in certain types of contraband is against the law and can land you in jail. When you visit friends and loved ones in jail, it is important to know the rules about contraband and what you may or not bring to them when you visit.
Carrying Drugs or Alcohol into Jail: A Punishable Offense in Creek County
Oklahoma law states that any person who carries any of the following items into a jail, or other state penal institution may be convicted of a felony:
- gun,
- knife,
- bomb,
- dangerous instrument,
- controlled dangerous substance (drugs),
- intoxicating beverage,
- money, or
- financial document for anyone other than the inmate or the inmate’s spouse.
Okla. Stat. tit. 57 § 21
Penalties
In Oklahoma, a felony conviction usually involves jail time. If convicted, you could face one to five years in prison, a fine between $100 and $1,000, or both.
If your friend is caught with contraband, the ramifications for them are also serious. If an inmate is found to be in possession of any item of prohibited contraband, that inmate will be guilty of a felony crime; this is punishable by a prison term of 5 to 20 years. Multiple violations by an inmate can lead to at least 20 years in prison.
Other Types of Contraband
There are less severe consequences for bringing in other types of contraband. Bringing in cigarettes, cigars, snuff, or any other tobacco products, can expose you to a misdemeanor charge. This is punishable by up to a year in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both.
Cell phones and other electronic devices are also prohibited. Bringing in any device that is capable of sending or receiving messages or calls is a felony in Oklahoma. That cell phone could expose you to up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. Okla. Stat. tit. 57 § 21
So, think twice when a friend in jail asks you for a favor. But if you or a loved one are facing charges for bringing in contraband, contact an experienced Sapulpa criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer could help you preserve your rights and your freedom.
Low-cost Consultation: Sapulpa Criminal Defense Attorney
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For a low-cost and confidential consultation with a Sapulpa criminal defense attorney, call 918-248-0067.
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