News Releases

Quebec Region

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DRUG SEIZURE AT COWANSVILLE INSTITUTION

Laval, (Quebec), July 26, 2011 – On July 24, 2011, at approximately 10:20 p.m., as a result of the vigilance of staff, three suspicious packages were recovered between two perimeter fences at Cowansville Institution, a medium-security federal penitentiary located in Cowansville.

Upon inspection, a total of 1650.5 grams of tobacco, 5 lighters, approximately 20 packages of rolling paper and 1970 pills indentified as being “speed” were concealed in the packages. The estimated institutional value is $126,000. There is currently an ongoing investigation at the institution.

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

There is a toll free number (450-664-6702) available to citizens for reporting any pressure exerted on a visitor by other visitors and/or inmates involved in drug trafficking, intimidation, assault or loansharking. This 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:

Charles Brouillard
A/Assistant Warden, Management Services
Correctional Service of Canada
Cowansville Institution, Cowansville, Quebec
(450) 263-3073, ext. 2102