Prison security revamp needs fund boost

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Heads of the Texas prison system said they feel millions of new dollars is the solution to improve security at all prisons across the state and prevent cell phones from being smuggled in. The problem came to a head when a death row inmate used a smuggled cell phone to call and threaten state lawmaker John Whitmire.

Even after a statewide prison lockdown, more cell phones turned up. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice is asking the legislature for almost $30 million to immediately update the current security systems at the most high-risk facilities in the state. TDCJ Executive Director Brad Livingston said the money will be concentrated on contraband screening and video surveillance at the facilites where the most violent offenders live.

The TDCJ said it will cost another $36 million to upgrade the states' remaining facilities. So far, 132 phones, 118 phone chargers and 183 weapons have been found on inmates. Livingston said the money will help.

"Not only will we be several steps ahead with respect to eradicating contraband within our system but it will also serve in an overall way to enhance safety and security of all of our facilites," said Livingston.

Some corrections officers are suspected of taking bribes to smuggle phones in. Arrests are expected to be made soon.