One weapon was recovered during a seven-day lockdown at Kent Institution.
According to the Correctional Service of Canada, the lockdown was initiated on Friday, Jan. 9. The search "was ordered to ensure the safety and security of the institution, its staff and inmates," states a press release from CSC. Sheila Collett, assistant warden of management services at Kent, says when they do a lockdown, the intention is always to resume normal operations as soon as staff feel it is safe to do so.
"The lockdown was initiated following information that weapons were present in the inmate population and, during the search, one weapon was recovered," states Collett.
She explains that, in a lockdown procedure, inmates are confined to their cells, with certain exceptions and protocols, to ensure safety and security of staff, inmates and the public. Visits are suspended during lockdowns.
Collett goes on to say that criminal and disciplinary charges can be laid against any individuals found to be involved in illegal activities, such as possession of unauthorized items. However, no details were available by press time whether charges will be laid in this case.
The lockdown ended on Friday, January 16.