Caroline Wolf Harlow, Ph.D.

July 1, 1992    NCJ 134724

Data were collected from 957 State prison facilities, 250 State community-based facilities, and 80 Federal prisons operating on June 29, 1990. Results revealed that 98 percent of State community-based facilities, 83 percent of State prisons, and all Federal prisons reported that they tested inmates for drug use. Seventy-six percent reported testing inmates for drugs when drug use was suspected, while 20 percent tested all inmates at least once during confinement. Marijuana and cocaine were the drugs most commonly detected, with about one in 16 tests in State facilities and one in 100 tests in Federal facilities positive for marijuana. About one in 28 tests in State facilities and one in 250 tests in Federal facilities were positive for cocaine. Most prison facilities patted down inmates and required them to exchange clothes upon admission or any reentry. Most facilities also searched the belongings of visitors. Staff were also subject to drug interdiction activities. Tables and description of methodology

Part of the Census of State and Federal Correctional Facilities Series

PDF

Help for using BJS products

To cite this product, use the following link:
http://www.bjs.gov/index.cfm?ty=pbdetail&iid=4063

View All Publications and Products