California prison bans visitor hugging and kissing

[October 05, 2010]  BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (AP) -- A minimum security prison in California has banned hugs and kisses because authorities fear visitors are sharing a lot more than affection.

 Concerns about contraband have prompted officials at Lerdo Minimum Facility in Bakersfield to stop allowing inmates and visitors to share one brief hug and kiss.

Sheriff's Sgt. Ian Silva tells the Bakersfield Californian that in August, four visitors were found with contraband, including a knife, a handcuff key, marijuana, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

The touchy, feely times ended Friday. From now on, guards who see an inmate give a hug or a smooch will end the visit.

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Information from: The Bakersfield Californian, http://www.bakersfield.com/

[Associated Press]

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