Quick Facts
Michigan Department of Corrections officials reported finding items they classified as contraband during a cell search of Temujin Kensu. The items were described as written materials and documents. No weapons, drugs, or physical security threats were alleged.
Contraband findings can be used to influence parole decisions, custody classification, and credibility assessments. In cases involving post-conviction review or innocence claims, disciplinary allegations may be cited to undermine an incarcerated person’s reliability, even when the conduct is unrelated to the underlying conviction.
MDOC policy allows incarcerated individuals to possess legal documents, personal writings, and approved publications. Items are only considered contraband if they violate specific policy rules, exceed quantity limits, or are reclassified at staff discretion. Enforcement and interpretation can vary widely.
Contraband determinations are made by MDOC staff based on internal policy directives. These determinations are not made by courts and often occur without independent review. Appeals of misconduct findings are handled internally and rarely include external oversight.
The finding raises concerns because it occurred in the context of long-standing innocence claims and ongoing advocacy. Critics argue that disciplinary actions based on paperwork or writings can function as retaliation or character attacks rather than legitimate security measures.
Yes. Even minor misconduct findings can negatively affect parole eligibility, security classification, and institutional treatment. In high-profile or contested cases, these records may be cited to argue against release or credibility, regardless of the seriousness of the alleged violation.
Source: MDOC misconduct and classification records released via FOIA
Date of Misconduct Review
- Misconduct hearing held September 12, 2025
- Related property and hearing documentation dated September 9–23, 2025
Charge
- Class II Misconduct – Dangerous Contraband
- Reporting Code: 030
Basis for Charge
According to the hearing officer’s findings:
- Mr. Kensu was found in possession of a Wi-Fi stick, classified under MDOC Policy Directive 03.03.105 as an electronic communication accessory.
- The Wi-Fi stick was plugged into an extension cord located in the prisoner’s area of control.
- Mr. Kensu admitted possession of the Wi-Fi stick.
- He further admitted to using the Wi-Fi stick to make a telephone call to his attorney, as documented in the hearing record.
- The item was therefore determined to constitute dangerous contraband under MDOC policy.
Additional Items Reviewed
- Mr. Kensu was also found with multiple tablets (reported as eight).
- MDOC records state:
- There was no evidence presented that the tablets were jailbroken or independently Wi-Fi capable.
- MDOC policy allows possession of one tablet.
- Mr. Kensu agreed to retain one tablet and send the remaining tablets out on a visit.
- Earbuds were noted as having been purchased through approved MDOC channels.
Hearing Outcome
- Finding: Guilty (Charge No. 1)
- Sanction:
- 25 days loss of privileges
- Sanction period: September 12, 2025 – October 7, 2025
- No additional days of detention, toplock, or restitution were imposed.
Property Disposition
- The Wi-Fi stick was treated as contraband per policy.
- Altered or unauthorized items were designated for disposal.
- Legal and non-altered personal property was addressed separately under MDOC property procedures.
- Two 10-foot lockers containing claimed legal materials were ordered stored pending a separate legal hearingwith the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
Hearing Officer
- S. Morris, Hearing Officer
- Hearing conducted with Mr. Kensu present via videoconference.
- Records indicate effective communication accommodations were provided.
Documentation:
All information above is drawn directly from MDOC misconduct hearing reports, property disposition records, and classification documents released in response to FOIA request 25.1683
