News Releases

Quebec Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DONNACONA, QC, January 9, 2007 - On the evening of January 8, 2007, at Donnacona Institution, a maximum-security federal penitentiary, six inmates were injured during a disturbance in the gym. Four inmates were injured by fellow inmates, who used homemade weapons. Two other inmates sustained injuries to their hand and arm, respectively, by projectiles fired by correctional officers to end the disturbance. Attempts to use other means, such as gas, to end the disturbance had been unsuccessful. Five inmates were taken to the hospital, where four remain at this time.

The Sûreté du Québec was notified and sent officers to the Institution to gather statements from all those involved in the incident.

The penitentiary is currently locked down and the situation is calm. The Correctional Service of Canada will conduct strategic analysis of the situation to ensure that the situation returns to normal under the best conditions possible.

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For more information, media representatives may contact:

Jean-Jacques Michaux
418-285-2455, ext. 2210