UPDATE: Massachusetts correction officers are raising alarms over the urgent need to combat drug smuggling in prisons, stating that both officers’ and inmates’ lives are in jeopardy. This follows a recent report from the Department of Correction (DOC) indicating multiple arrests linked to drug and contraband smuggling operations.
Just this week, the DOC-Massachusetts State Police Task Force announced significant seizures of illicit substances, including 110 pages of synthetic cannabinoids and 142 strips of Suboxone. The task force has initiated 26 cases, directly resulting in arrests or charges against individuals attempting to deliver drugs to inmates. The estimated street value of the seized cannabinoids exceeds $9 million, highlighting the severity of the issue.
Correction officers are demanding more robust measures to address this crisis. The Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union stated, “Our officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake,” emphasizing the urgency for additional action against drug trafficking in prisons. They have repeatedly urged the DOC to collaborate more closely to enhance safety protocols.
Last year’s incident at MCI-Shirley, where a correction officer was exposed to synthetic cannabinoids and required Narcan four times, underscores the dangers posed by drug smuggling. “Preventing dangerous drugs and contraband from entering state prisons is essential to protecting the safety and health of all who live and work across DOC facilities,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon.
The DOC has been proactive in addressing this nationwide crisis by employing a combination of enforcement tactics, advanced technology, and educational programs for inmates regarding the dangers of drug use. “The results of this joint effort… demonstrate what is possible when law enforcement partners combine enforcement, intelligence, and technology,” Kwon added.
Significant cases have emerged from facilities such as MCI-Shirley, MCI-Norfolk, and Old Colony Correctional Center in Bridgewater. At MCI-Shirley, investigators apprehended a woman attempting to conceal drugs in her mouth, leading to the discovery of synthetic cannabinoids. At MCI-Norfolk, authorities uncovered large quantities of K2 hidden inside baby powder containers, valued at nearly $250,000.
DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins praised the collaboration with federal and local law enforcement, stating, “These arrests underscore our commitment to holding accountable those who disregard the health and safety of our colleagues and those in our care.”
To bolster safety, the DOC has rolled out the Unknown Substance Response Policy and invested in new personal protective equipment for staff. “This Task Force’s work reinforces the critical role law enforcement plays in disrupting trafficking networks that target correctional facilities,” said Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble.
As the situation continues to evolve, the DOC and its partners remain vigilant in their efforts to deter drug trafficking into prisons. The urgency of this crisis cannot be overstated, as both staff and inmates face increasing risks due to the ongoing smuggling operations.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as new information emerges.
