Thursday noon, the office of Minister François Bonnardel reacted to the violence reported by The Sun in the morning.
Between December 18 and 24, three correctional officers at the Quebec Detention Center were attacked by inmates. One of them was bitten “until he bled” by a criminal suffering from the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
These attacks represent the growing tensions in the Quebec prison, according to various employees. In recent months, the proliferation of street gang members within the walls and the lack of personnel have contributed significantly to this climate. The situation is strongly denounced by the correctional officers’ union.
“We cannot tolerate acts of violence against our prison officers in all detention centers in Quebec. This must stop,” said the minister’s office in a written statement.
More sanctions?
The cabinet is considering adopting additional dissuasive measures. “We are also working to review the sanctions for various offenses committed in prison,” indicates the firm.
As misdeeds and assaults increase in detention centers, charges don’t always follow, according to various officers. Currently, an inmate who assaults an employee spends approximately one to three days in the seclusion area, also known as the “hole.” “It’s not huge,” says a correctional officer.
“The agents have my full support and that of the ministry to ensure law and order reign in prison,” concludes Minister Bonnardel’s office.
“No aggression is accepted”
At the end of December, the Ministry of Public Security (MSP) highlighted the deterrent measures already in place in prisons.
“In order to maintain a healthy and safe work environment, no aggression is accepted,” says Louise-Quintin, spokesperson for the MSP, in response to questions from the Soleil.
An Anti-Intimidation Plan exists in particular “to act against the occurrence and recurrence of acts likely to intimidate those involved in the judicial system, including correctional officers”.
