Contraband seized at Millhaven Institution after routine search

Several packages containing contraband and unauthorized items were seized at Millhaven Institution, a maximum-security prison, on Wednesday, May 3, 2023.

According to the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC), the seizure was “the result of the vigilance of staff members,” and the packages were discovered during a routine search of the property.

The items seized included approximately 123 grams of shatter (cannabis concentrate), as well as cell phones and accessories, according to a release from the CSC dated Friday, May 5, 2023.

In the release, CSC said that the organization uses a number of tools to prevent drugs from entering its institutions. These tools include ion scanners and detector dogs to search buildings, personal property, inmates and visitors.

CSC has set up a telephone tip line for all of its federal institutions in order to receive information about activities relating to security at those institutions, such as drug use or trafficking. The tool-free number, 1-866-780-3784, ensures that information shared through it is protected and that callers can remain anonymous. Anyone who sees suspicious activity around CSC institutions is encouraged to call that number, or local police (Kingston Police can be reached at 613-549-4660, and tips can be relayed anonymously by calling extension 0 at that number at requesting to remain anonymous).

Drug use or trafficking within federal correctional institutions “may threaten the safety and security of visitors, inmates, and staff members,” CSC said.