Routine search reveals drugs, cell phones at Joyceville Institution
A package containing contraband and unauthorized items was seized at Joyceville Institution, a multi-security prison in Kingston’s east end, on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022.
According to the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC), the seizure was “the result of the vigilance of staff members,” and the package was discovered during a routine search of the property.
The seized items included approximately 260 grams of tobacco and rolling papers, 208 grams of cannabis, 104 grams of shatter (cannabis concentrate), as well as cell phones and accessories, according to a release from the CSC dated Friday, Sept. 23, 2022.
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 measures in place to prevent contraband and unauthorized items from entering its institutions in order to help ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone,” the national agency that oversees all federal correctional facilities stated. “CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband or unauthorized items into correctional institutions.”
Despite those tools and measures, CSC has announced at least 13 such seizures of contraband and/or unauthorized items since the beginning of 2022.
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.