News Releases

Ontario Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LOCKDOWN AT JOYCEVILLE INSTITUTION - UPDATE

JOYCEVILLE, ON, April 3, 2008 - Joyceville Institution remains on a modified routine following a disturbance which occurred on March 31, 2008, in order to facilitate a search of the institution.

The institutional head has authorized an exceptional search of 4 ranges, focusing on contraband and more specifically, weapons. One range housed the inmate who was assaulted and the other three ranges participated in the disturbance to various degrees.

In order to gain compliance from the offenders involved, and in accordance with CSC policy, chemical agent was used by the responding officers. As well, the use of firearms was authorized, however there were no shots fired during the incident.

The victim of the assault is under observation at an institutional hospital and police are conducting an investigation.

Seven inmates have been relocated from Joyceville Institution to maximum security facilities. These inmates have been identified as integral participants in the incident.

The immediate repairs necessary to the institution have been completed.

Joyceville Institution remains on a modified routine and visits to the institution will be reinstated as of Thursday April 3, 2008. The institution is anticipating returning to the normal operating routine on Monday April 7, 2008.

The current estimated cost associated with this incident is $25 000.

The safety and security of institutions, staff and public is the highest priority in the operations of the federal correctional system. Subsequently, the institution will reopen only once it has been determined that it is safe to do so.

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For more information, media representatives may contact:

Janine Chown
A/Regional Communications Manager
Ontario Region
613-545-8210