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<p>We are taking decisive steps to tackle the use of drones as a supply route for
organised criminals to bring drugs and mobile phones into prisons. These drone operators
can be prosecuted for offences related to conveyance of items into prison under the
Prison Act 1952. Last year we launched Operation Trenton, a specialist team of police
and Prison Service investigators, to work together to intercept drones and track down
the criminals behind them.</p><p> </p><p>On 26 October, following the largest investigation
of its kind, an organised criminal gang of 15 were collectively sentenced to nearly
40 years in prison for using drones to drop drugs into several prisons. One member
of the gang received a sentence of 10 years’ custody, the highest single sentence
for drone-related activity to date.</p><p> </p><p>Prisoners who break the law in prison
should expect to be sanctioned according to the severity of the crime, with serious
crimes being referred to the police for investigation. The maximum sentence that a
court may impose will depend on the facts of the case and the offence the prisoner
has been found guilty of committing. In respect of controlled drugs, for example,
prisoners involved in their delivery may receive a sentence of up to 10 years’ custody
and an unlimited fine.</p>
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