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You might think prisons ban obvious things like weapons and drugs, and you'd be right. But what about everyday items you wouldn't think twice about? The reality is, even seemingly harmless things can be banned behind bars. Why? Because in the hands of a creative (and perhaps slightly desperate) inmate, they can be repurposed in ways that would shock you.
Let's take a peek inside the cell block and uncover some surprisingly contraband items:
Chewing Gum: The Impression Maker and Lock Jammer
Think a stick of gum is just for freshening breath? Think again. In prison, chewing gum can be molded into a makeshift key impression, potentially aiding an escape attempt. It can also be used to jam locks, creating chaos and hindering security efforts.
Spiral Notebooks: More Than Just Note-Taking
Those innocent-looking notebooks with the metal rings? They're a no-go in many prisons. The rings can be manipulated to craft weapons or even lock-picking tools.
R-Rated DVDs: Censorship Behind Bars
Believe it or not, some prisons, particularly in England and Wales, restrict access to R-rated movies. The reasoning? To prevent inmates from viewing excessive violence or explicit content, even though many have lived through similar experiences.
Books: Knowledge is Power, But Sometimes Too Powerful
You might assume access to literature would be encouraged, but certain books are often banned in prisons. The reasons vary from concerns about national security to fears of inciting violence or gang activity. For example, "The 48 Laws of Power," a popular guide to manipulation and strategy, has been banned in several prisons due to its potential to disrupt order.
Homemade Lovers: Combating Loneliness, Breaking Rules
This one might seem surprising, but in the face of loneliness and isolation, some inmates resort to creating companions out of whatever materials they can find. However, these "homemade lovers" are strictly prohibited and can land an inmate in hot water.
Other Unexpected Items:
- Staples and Paperclips: These seemingly innocuous office supplies can be transformed into tattoo needles or tools for picking handcuffs.
- Full-Length Pencils: The potential for sharpening them into weapons means inmates are often limited to short "golf pencils."
- Toilet Paper: Believe it or not, with enough time and determination, toilet paper can be hardened and molded into a surprisingly effective weapon known as a "toilet paper shank."
- Candy: While seemingly harmless, colorful candies like M&Ms can be crushed and mixed with water to create makeshift makeup, which is often considered contraband.
The Takeaway
The world behind bars is governed by strict rules and regulations, often extending to items we take for granted. While some restrictions might seem excessive, they highlight the challenges of maintaining order and security within a confined and often volatile environment. The next time you reach for a stick of gum or a spiral notebook, take a moment to appreciate the unexpected freedoms you enjoy outside the prison walls.
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