News Releases

Quebec Region

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SUBSTANTIAL DRUG SEIZURE AT COWANSVILLE INSTITUTION

Laval, Quebec, November 18, 2010 – On November 16, 2010, a substantial quantity of contraband drugs and substances intended for trafficking inside the institution was found near the perimeter fences at Cowansville Institution, a medium-security federal penitentiary.

During his patrol, an officers observed an individual running in the field around the perimeter of the institution and throwing two bags that did not make it over the fence.

The two bags contained 105.4 g of hashish, 4 lighters, 5 tablets of hydromorphone, 2,141.5 g of tobacco (42 bales), 13 packages of rolling paper, 69.7 g of tobacco, and 20 tablets of "speed," for a total institutional value of $53,775. An investigation is underway to identify any suspects who may have been involved.

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

Lucette L'Espérance
Assistant Warden, Management Services
Cowansville Institution
Correctional Service Canada 450 263 3073, extension 2102