Prison Guards in British Columbia Speak Out Against Escalating Violence and Influx of Weapons and Drugs from Drones

The Union of Canadian Correctional Officers is expressing concern that prisons are being “overwhelmed” by an increase in drone deliveries of weapons and drugs, leading to a rise in violence within correctional facilities.

Members of the union are planning a protest outside the regional headquarters of the Correctional Service of Canada in Abbotsford, B.C., on April 18 to address the escalating violence.

John Randle, the Pacific regional union president, revealed that one prison in B.C. frequently experiences six or seven drone sightings per night.

He mentioned that guards are facing difficulties in holding inmates accountable for their violent actions since they are no longer allowed to use “disciplinary segregation” to temporarily separate a violent prisoner from the unit.

The union stated in a release that its officers are repeatedly targeted for assaults, resulting in both physical and psychological injuries.

It highlighted that the increase in attacks against guards has led to a mental health crisis, with working conditions and the management structure at correctional facilities failing to meet the needs of frontline workers.

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Mr. Randle stated that they anticipate over 100 members will gather on April 18 outside the Correctional Service of Canada’s Pacific regional headquarters in Abbotsford.

The protest aims to condemn the violence experienced by members, who frequently return home from work with injuries.