The following was released by the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office:
Correctional officers at the Catahoula Correctional Center (CCC) have completed specialized operator training on a newly installed full-body security scanning system provided by OD Security North America.
The training focused on safe operation, calibration and advanced detection techniques designed to strengthen the facility’s ability to intercept contraband before it enters the secure area.
The system uses low-dose transmission X-ray technology and features green and amber/red indicator lights to guide operators through proper scanning and calibration. Officers were trained to identify concealed items by analyzing shape evolution, a method that highlights unusual or foreign objects based on their outline, density, and placement.
The scanner also incorporates an AI-driven thermal overview powered by machine learning algorithms that assist operators by flagging anomalies and improving detection accuracy.
Sheriff Toney Edwards emphasized the importance of investing in modern security tools:
“Our goal is simple: Keep contraband out of the prison and catch it before it ever gets inside. Every piece of contraband we stop is one less threat to our staff, our inmates and ultimately our community. This technology gives us the ability to see what the human eye can’t, and it allows our officers to do their jobs more safely and effectively.”
Edwards added that staying ahead of evolving smuggling methods is essential.
“We are committed to staying ahead of the methods people use to smuggle items into correctional facilities. Training like this ensures our staff is confident, prepared and equipped with the best tools available. Public safety starts with secure facilities, and this scanner is a major step forward for Catahoula Parish.”
Warden Gary Allen echoed that message, noting that “anything we can do in terms of training and equipment will better the center and make it safer.”
Expanded Screening Procedures
In addition to scanning inmates during intake, movement, and visitation, CCC now requires all employees to be scanned during shift changes.
This policy ensures that every individual entering the secure perimeter—staff or inmate—is subject to the same level of screening, further reducing opportunities for contraband to enter the facility.
What the Scanner Can Detect
Modern transmission X-ray scanners are capable of identifying a wide range of contraband, including:
- Drugs and drug-filled balloons
- Cell phones, SIM cards, and chargers
- Weapons, blades, and improvised tools
- Currency and prohibited personal items
- Metallic and non-metallic objects
- Items concealed under clothing or inside the body
National Data on Contraband Detection Technology
According to correctional technology studies and state-level reports:
- Facilities that adopt full-body scanners often see 50–70% reductions in contraband incidents within the first year. Source: National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Technology Evaluation Reports
- The Mississippi Department of Corrections reported over 1,200 contraband items intercepted in the first 12 months after implementing body scanners statewide. Source: Mississippi DOC Annual Report
- The Federal Bureau of Prisons noted that scanners significantly reduce the need for physical searches and lower staff injury rates associated with manual contraband recovery. Source: Federal Bureau of Prisons Security Technology Brief
- AI-assisted scanners have been shown to increase detection accuracy and reduce false negatives, improving overall facility safety. Source: American Correctional Association (ACA) Technology Review
CCC expects similar improvements as the new system becomes fully integrated into intake, visitation, staff screening and inmate movement procedures.
The Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office remains committed to investing in training, technology and personnel to ensure the highest standards of safety and security for the community.
Copyright 2026 Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office. All rights reserved.
