Contraband includes drugs and weapons, but also includes a key, hypodermic needle, knife, razor, rope and other items that could be used to facilitate escape. Cases are prosecuted now as aiding and abetting under the sections on providing contraband. The proposal also would allow inmates to be x-rayed when there is reason to believe an inmate may possess contraband. This measure addresses situations that occur in the visiting rooms of institutions, when an inmate may swallow a balloon of controlled substances provided by a visitor. Identity theft occurs when someone knowingly obtains personal identification information of another and use that information for personal gain, such as obtaining credit or property.
Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America.
The crime can drain a person's bank account, and it can destroy a person's credit. There is no law in Iowa that addresses the problem of a person stealing, using, or attempting to use another's personal identification information. Stolen identity can cause complicated and troublesome problems for victims, but, without actual monies being stolen, prosecution in these areas often is extremely difficult. Part of the increase in identity theft may be related to the rapid pace of technology, people shopping over the Internet, and easy credit, including pre-approval of credit card applications in the mail. Access to a person's personal identification information is easier today than ever before.