News Releases

Quebec Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DONNACONA, QC, May 4, 2006 - On April 29, 2006, following an internal investigation conducted by Security Intelligence Officers at Donnacona Institution, a woman visiting an inmate was intercepted carrying 27.6 grams of hashish.

The Security Intelligence Officer explained to the visitor that she was suspected of having drugs in her possession, and the visitor was read her rights. During a search, she handed over the drugs. An additional 38 grams of the same drug were seized at the visitor's home with the help of the Sûreté du Québec. These efforts made it possible to follow the trail and arrest the spouse of a second inmate, an accomplice in this case, in the Saguenay yesterday.

The institutional value of all the drugs seized is about $5,000.

The inmate directly involved and the other inmate who served as an accomplice were placed in segregation. The visitor was arrested, as was the second accomplice. Investigators from the Sûreté du Québec will lay charges shortly for conspiracy and possession of a narcotic for the purpose of trafficking.

The authorities at Donnacona Institution wish to remind citizens that there is a toll free telephone line (1 866 355 DONA (3662)) for reporting any pressure to which a visitor may be subjected by other visitors and/or inmates involved in drug trafficking, intimidation, assault and loan sharking. Such information is treated with confidentiality, and a Security Intelligence Officer provides follow up.

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For more information, media representatives may contact:

Stéphane Jaillet
Assistant Warden, Management Services
(418) 285-2455, extension 2110, or 285-9977