Lockdown and exceptional search at Ferndale Institution

Mission, British Columbia, April 3, 2013 – At approximately 0900 hours on April 3, 2013, Ferndale Institution, a minimum security federal penitentiary, was placed on lockdown in order to facilitate an exceptional search of the institution. The search is a result of the introduction of unauthorized items into the institution.

The safety and security of our institutions are the primary considerations of the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC). The institution will re-open as soon as searching is complete and it is determined safe to do so.

Visits will be suspended until the search has been completed.

CSC is committed to preventing contraband from entering its institutions. Our efforts contribute towards ensuring a safe and secure environment for staff and inmates. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to have contraband brought into correctional institutions.

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For more information, media personnel may contact:

Brandon Banks
Assistant Warden Management Services
Correctional Service Canada
Ferndale Institution
604-820-5856