A bill imposing harsher punishment for those involved in promoting prison contraband is now law. 

CNMI DOC Commissioner Anthony Torres told KUAM, "It is an extra tool in my toolbox to do what I need to do to eradicate contraband coming into the facility."

The law now authorizes local prosecution for possession of contraband. The law clarifies what exactly is prohibited along with penalties for people who introduce, possess, and promote contraband in correctional facilities. 

"If a staff member was found bringing in contraband, we would detain that individual and call the police. The police would come over and the individual would be arrested right on the spot and charges would be brought against them," Torres said.

He added, "In the past, I would have to handle it at the administrative level which would probably mean termination or resignation….depending on the situation. With this bill in place, my hands are tied. So if you decide to bring something small, you are still going to get charged."

The law defines “major contraband” to include firearms, controlled substances, and electronic devices. “Minor contraband” includes alcohol and money.

A conviction for major contraband could place a person in prison for no more than four years and with a $1,500 fine. A conviction for minor contraband could lead to no more than a year in prison and a fine of $1,000. 

After the bill was signed into law, the commissioner published a department-wide memo informing officers that there will be zero tolerance for non-compliance. He said he will fully enforce the law. 

Torres said, "It is a deterrent. It is a huge deterrent for any individual who is going to think about bringing anything in."