Image: M. Vanden Bosch / PML / Correctional staff at Kent Institution, a max-security prison west of Agassiz, intercepted $52,640 in contraband this month, including two weapons, cell phones, THC, and tobacco.
Kent

Weapons, contraband estimated at $52,640 seized by Kent Institution correctional staff

Oct 29, 2022 | 10:44 AM

AGASSIZ — Correctional staff at the maximum-security federal prison west of Agassiz were instrumental in intercepting a stash of illicit goods intended for its inmates.

The Correctional Service of Canada reported this past week that contraband estimated at $52,640 was seized on October 12 at Kent Institution, thanks to the vigilance of staff members.

The contraband and unauthorized items seized included five cell phones, two chargers, two weapons, THC, and tobacco. The total estimated institutional value of this seizure is $52,640.

The police have been notified and the institution is investigating.

CSC says it uses a number of tools to prevent drugs from entering its institutions. These tools include ion scanners and drug-detector dogs to search buildings, personal property, inmates, and visitors.

The contraband seizure wasn’t the only incident at Kent in October.

On October 23, correctional staff learned an inmate was assaulted. The injured inmate was evaluated by staff members and transported to an outside hospital to receive treatment. The inmate has since returned to the custody of CSC. The Agassiz detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the institution are presently investigating the incident.