New Santa Cruz Jail Body Scanner Nabs Contraband In First Week

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — Three contraband items have been found on inamtes in the week since a body scanner — like those used in airport security — was installed at the Santa Cruz County Main Jail, according to the Sheriff's Office.

Deputies most recently discovered meth, the Sheriff's Office said in a press release. The woman admitted to hiding a small metal container of drugs inside of her and deputies added possessing a controlled substance in jail to her list of charges.

A lighter and inmate communications have also been discovered, according to the Sheriff's Office.

"I have no doubt catching drugs and other contraband before they are brought into the jail will save lives," Sheriff Jim Hart said last week in a press release to announce the new technology.

The scanners provide high-resolution, full body scans, according to the Sheriff's Office. Most people booked into Santa Cruz County facilities are processed through Main Jail.

Grand jurors recommended in September that the Sheriff's Office look into body scanning equipment to spot drugs before they come into facilities.