Exceptional search turns up contraband at Collins Bay Institution

Contraband and unauthorized items have once again been seized at Collins Bay Institution on Bath Road in Kingston.

The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) detailed in a media release, dated Monday, Apr. 15, 2025, that this seizure was the result of an exceptional search, and credited “the vigilance of staff members” for the seizure.

Several packages were reportedly seized on Wednesday, Apr. 3, 2024, according to the national correctional agency. Items in the packages reportedly included ecstasy and an unknown substance suspected to be fentanyl, as well as cellphones and cellphone accessories. According to the release, the total estimated institutional value of these seizures is approximately $127,780.

Last week, Kingstonist reported a seizure, due to a suspected drone drop, which took place on Tuesday, Apr. 9, 2024. As today’s release detailed a seizure prior to that incident, we reached out to the CSC for an explanation of the timing for releasing the details of the seizure.

“This one required a bit more investigating since it was discovered during an exceptional search of incoming property, while the release last week was a seizure following a suspected drone drop,” explained Mike Shrider, Regional Communications Manager for CSC.

“It was just a matter of additional time required by our staff to account for what was found and provide us with the accurate details.”

This is the ninth reported seizure of contraband and unauthorized goods at the local multi-security facility since the beginning of 2024. Kingstonist spoke with CSC about the increase in drone drops and the seizure of contraband/unauthorized items at Kingston area federal prisons this year in mid-March.

According to the release, the CSC 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, the CSC noted, adding that it works “in partnership with police to take action against those who attempt to introduce” such items at federal prisons.

“CSC has set up a telephone tip line for all federal institutions so that it may receive additional information about activities relating to security at CSC institutions. These activities may be related to drug use or trafficking that may threaten the safety and security of visitors, inmates, and staff members working at CSC institutions,” the organization stated.

“The toll-free number, 1-866-780-3784, helps ensure that the information shared is protected and that callers remain anonymous.”