News Releases

Prairies Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ASSAULT AT SASKATCHEWAN PENITENTIARY

PRINCE ALBERT, SK, April 23, 2008 - At approximately 1900 hours a group of gang-affiliated medium security inmates began fighting in the gymnasium and small yard area. Correctional Officers responded and quickly gained control of the incident.

Approximately 15 inmates were injured, 11 of whom were transported to outside hospital for further treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

Lock up was successfully completed and all remaining inmates have been safely returned to their cells and have been accounted for. No staff were involved in the incident nor did any staff sustain any injuries during the management of the incident.

The Correctional Service of Canada has zero-tolerance for institutional violence, and an investigation into the incident will be conducted. The Institution will remain locked down until further notice.

Saskatchewan Penitentiary is a federal penitentiary located 1 km West of Prince Albert, SK, currently accommodating 520 medium security inmates. The Saskatchewan Penitentiary maximum security unit houses 90 maximum security inmates.

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For more information, media representatives may contact:

Darcy Begrand
Media Relations
Saskatchewan Penitentiary
Correctional Service of Canada
306-765-8333

Wendy Tippett
A/Regional Communications Manager
Regional Headquarters - Prairie Region
Correctional Service of Canada
306-975-5191