By Gov1 Staff
RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is rolling out a high-tech mail screening system designed to stop drugs and contraband from entering its facilities.
The department is the first corrections system to pilot the Sentinel CT scanner, developed by ScanTech AI Systems, Inc, according to VADOC’s news release. The scanner will be deployed at VADOC’s Centralized Mail Distribution Center for six months to screen incoming inmate mail. The system uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to detect even small amounts of contraband.
The pilot comes at no cost to VADOC and does not require the department to purchase the scanner after the trial period.
“Drug and contraband smugglers are constantly trying to find new ways to get their poison into our secure facilities,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. “As a Department, we also have to continually refine the way we inspect the items coming to our facilities to make sure we catch as many illegal items as we possibly can. The VADOC continues to innovate in the field of corrections and I am excited to partner with ScanTech for this pilot program.”
ScanTech President and CEO Dolan Falconer said the technology is designed to enhance security operations and improve efficiency.
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“We are honored to work with the Virginia Department of Corrections on this innovative initiative to enhance mail screening security through advanced technology,” said ScanTech President & Chief Executive Officer Dolan Falconer. “By leveraging AI-driven detection capabilities, our solution aims to provide the Department of Correction’s personnel with a powerful tool to identify contraband efficiently and accurately, reducing risk and improving operational effectiveness. This effort underscores ScanTech’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge security solutions that support correctional institutions in safeguarding their facilities and the individuals within them.”
ScanTech AI Systems specializes in non-intrusive “fixed-gantry” CT screening technologies used in airports, seaports, government buildings and now correctional facilities, according to VADOC. The company’s scanners are engineered to detect hazardous materials and prohibited items across a range of security environments.
The pilot is part of VADOC’s ongoing efforts to prevent contraband from entering its facilities and improve safety for staff and inmates.
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