News Releases

Quebec Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ATTEMPT TO INTRODUCE DRUGS AND CONTRABAND

Cowansville, QC, October 27, 2009 - On October 25, 2009, an attempt to introduce drugs was thwarted through the vigilance of correctional staff in the visits and correspondence area at Cowansville Institution, a medium-security federal penitentiary, when an individual visiting an inmate left in the washroom a packet she had previously hidden in her clothing. The packet contained 119.5 grams of marijuana and 155 various tablets, with a total institutional value of $17,235.

The inmate and his visitor were arrested and the police were called in.

As part of its Transformation Agenda, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is taking strong action to prevent contraband from being brought into institutions and to provide a safe environment by encouraging inmates to assume more responsibility. CSC is also working in partnership with police forces to prosecute outside violators and inmates who attempt to bring contraband into institutions.

The authorities at Cowansville Institution wish to remind the public that there is a toll-free number (1 866 220 7782) for reporting any pressure exerted on a visitor by other visitors and/or inmates involved in drug trafficking, intimidation, assault and loansharking. Such information is kept confidential and will be followed up by a security intelligence officer.

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For further information, media representatives are asked to contact:

Alessandria Page,
Assistant Warden, Interventions
Cowansville Institution
450-263-3073, ext. 2510