Corrections_Today_Winter_2025-2026_Vol.87_No.4

News&Views

WASHINGTON WATCH

Washington responds to emerging technology threats for corrections By BBM Staff

House Homeland Security Committee holds drone threats hearing T he hearing focused on the U.S. homeland security, driven by their increasing use by foreign adversaries, criminal organizations and lone actors. It explored the challenges posed by drones, including their role in smuggling, surveillance and poten tial weaponization, as well as the need for enhanced counter-drone measures, expanded authorities and improved coordination to address these evolving threats. Drones are increasingly used for illicit activities, such as delivering contraband to U.S. prisons, mapping targets, intelligence collection and attacks. They are also interfering with disaster recovery efforts and large public events. DroneUp CEO testified “Pris ons Drones are now a standard tool for delivering contraband into U.S. prisons. From 2023 to 2024, Georgia reported 774 drone sightings at state correctional facilities. Of these, 720 growing threat of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to

Adobe Stock/Tierney

involved contraband drops, includ ing drugs, weapons, and cellphones. The incidents led to over 540 felony arrests. At Washington State Prison alone, authorities intercepted 21 drone drops in one year, arresting more than 40 individuals linked to smuggling operations (WGXA News).” The hearing underscored the urgent need for a coordinated,

multi-faceted approach to address the growing drone threat. The rec ommendations included enhancing detection and mitigation technolo gies, expanding and standardizing counter drone authorities, im proving airspace awareness and fostering collaboration between government, industry and SLTT stakeholders.

Corrections Today | Winter 2025-2026

22