News Releases

Pacific Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ASSAULT AT MATSQUI INSTITUTION

ABBOTSFORD, BC, June 23, 2008 - On Saturday, June 21, 2008 at approximately 2030 hours, an inmate was assaulted by another inmate at Matsqui Institution. The injured inmate was immediately escorted to a health care facility in order to stabilize his condition. The injuries sustained are not considered life threatening.

The institution is currently locked down. A police investigation and institutional search has been initiated.

In order to improve its practices to prevent and reduce future incidents, the Correctional Service of Canada will continue to work with the police in an effort review the circumstances surrounding the incident and take action where necessary.

Ensuring the safety and security of institutions, staff, and public remains the highest priority in the operations of the federal correctional system.

Matsqui Institution is a medium security facility operated by the Correctional Service of Canada. It is located in Abbotsford, B.C. and has a current population of 365 male offenders.

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For more information, media representatives may contact:

Assistant Warden Management Services
Matsqui Institution
604-850-8205