SC prison gets new equipment after drone incident

COLUMBIA (AP) — State officials are installing new equipment at the Lee Correctional Institution in Bishopville after someone used a drone to try to smuggle contraband into the maximum security prison.

The State newspaper reported (http://bit.ly/1zeO4vo) two new surveillance towers and thermal imaging cameras are being added to help prevent the smuggling of cellphones, drugs and other contraband.

Corrections Department Director Bryan Stirling the contraband items serve as money to inmates and create problems for guards and other employees.

A man was arrested in July In connection with an attempt to use a drone to fly over the fence and drop off cellphones, tobacco products and marijuana. Officials found the drone and material in bushes outside the prison.

The man’s name has not been released while the investigation continues.