Hostage Taking at the Regional Psychiatric Centre

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, March 21, 2012 – On March 21, 2012, at approximately 8:45 a.m., a patient at the Regional Psychiatric Centre (Prairies) barricaded himself in a room with another patient. At approximately 11:00 a.m., the perpetrator surrendered following negotiations by the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC). The situation ended peacefully and no staff or patients were physically injured in the incident. Operations at the institution will gradually return to normal.

The Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) have been contacted and will be conducting their own investigation. As in all situations of this manner, the CSC will work with SPS in an effort to review the circumstances surrounding this incident and take action where necessary. The CSC will also conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident.

The Regional Psychiatric Centre is a multi-level psychiatric hospital located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and operated by the CSC through an affiliation agreement with the University of Saskatchewan. The Centre provides assessment, intensive programming, treatment for mental health issues, and 24-hour medical care to individuals from the federal and provincial justice systems.

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For more information, media personnel may contact:

Karl Bayer
A/Assistant Warden Management Services
Correctional Service Canada
Regional Psychiatric Centre (Prairies)
(306) 975-5400 ext. 4681