News Releases

Quebec Region

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DRUG SEIZURE AT COWANSVILLE INSTITUTION

COWANSVILLE, October 29, 2010 – On October 28, 2010, at Cowansville Institution, a medium security federal penitentiary, staff vigilance led to the seizure of 34.5 grams of hashish and 12 ecstasy pills from a visitor during a routine search. This contraband has an institutional value of $4,100. The case has been transferred to the Sûreté du Québec, which is conducting an investigation.

As part of its Transformation Agenda, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is strengthening measures to prevent contraband from being brought into institutions in order to provide a safe and secure environment for everyone and promote offender rehabilitation. CSC also works in partnership with the police to prosecute inmates and others who attempt to bring contraband into the institutions.

CSC has a zero tolerance policy on illegal drugs in its institutions and has a number of tools it uses continuously to keep drugs out of the institutions. These include searching offenders, visitors, institutions and cells, as well as using ion scanners and detector dogs.

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, please contact:

Lucette L’Espérance
Assistant Warden
Cowansville Institution
450 263 3073, extension 2102