Oklahoma Dept. of Corrections backs FCC plan to jam contraband cell signals

The Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODOC) announces its support for a Federal Communications Commission plan to stop contraband from entering correctional facilities.

In a release issued by ODOC on Wednesday, the FCC’s proposed rule change would allow state correctional facilities to jam signals from contraband cellphones smuggled into prisons.

The proposal, scheduled for a vote by the FCC on Sept. 30, would lift current restrictions that hamper safe and effective correctional operations.

“Keeping contraband cellphones out of our prisons is just common sense,” Gov. Kevin Stitt said in the release. “This is a top priority to protect the safety of our staff and maintain order inside our facilities. I fully support the FCC’s effort to lift these restrictions so ODOC can better crack down on illegal devices and keep our prisons secure and inmates safe.”

According to ODOC, the agency confiscates hundreds of illicit devices through searches, intelligence-led operations and interdiction. However, the ability to jam contraband signals would complement existing efforts and strengthen institutional security.

In 2025, the agency says staff have seized more than 4,000 cellphones.

“The safety of our staff, incarcerated individuals and the communities we serve is our highest priority," ODOC Interim Director Justin Farris said. "Contraband cellphones undermine order, compromise investigations and put lives at risk. We believe the FCC’s proposal is a historic and necessary step to help secure our facilities effectively."