UPDATE: Massachusetts correctional officers are sounding the alarm over a surge in drug smuggling into state prisons, stating that “officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake.” This urgent plea comes as the Department of Correction (DOC) reports a series of significant contraband busts across multiple facilities.
Earlier this week, the DOC-Massachusetts State Police Task Force announced they have intercepted “significant quantities” of illicit substances, including 110 pages of synthetic cannabinoids, 142 strips of Suboxone, 120 pills of Oxycodone, 17 doses of fentanyl, two grams of heroin, and 4.5 grams of THC. The total value of the seized synthetic cannabinoids alone is estimated to exceed $9 million.
As part of their efforts, authorities have opened 26 cases, leading to arrests or charges against numerous suspects attempting to deliver drugs to inmates. The DOC reports that the majority of these cases are directly linked to drug smuggling operations.
“The Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union agrees with the Department of Correction that these findings are serious and the number one danger is the smuggling of illicit drugs into our prisons,” the union stated.
Despite these ongoing efforts, the union is calling for increased action, emphasizing that “more needs to be done” to combat the influx of dangerous substances. Their concerns are heightened following incidents such as last year’s alarming event where an officer at MCI-Shirley was hospitalized after exposure to a synthetic cannabinoid.
“Our officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake,” the union added. “We want our officers to feel safe when they go to work.” The union has been petitioning the DOC for more robust measures to eliminate the presence of K2 and other narcotics within the prison system.
Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon stated, “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.” Kwon praised the joint efforts between the DOC and Massachusetts State Police, highlighting their effectiveness in disrupting illegal activities.
Reports indicate that drug smuggling is a pervasive issue in correctional facilities nationwide. In response, the DOC is enhancing its approach by integrating enforcement, technology, and education for inmates on the harmful effects of drugs.
Several of the recent investigations occurred at MCI-Shirley, MCI-Norfolk, and Old Colony Correctional Center. Notably, at MCI-Shirley, investigators apprehended a woman attempting to conceal illicit items, leading to the discovery of synthetic cannabinoids. Meanwhile, at MCI-Norfolk, authorities found an inmate with a substantial stash of K2 hidden in baby powder containers, valued at nearly $250,000.
In a statement, DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining safety, saying, “These arrests underscore our commitment to holding accountable those who disregard the health and safety of our colleagues and those in our care.” Jenkins noted that ongoing collaboration with federal and local law enforcement is pivotal in curbing drug trafficking into correctional facilities.
The DOC has also implemented the Unknown Substance Response Policy, which includes purchasing new personal protective equipment to safeguard personnel dealing with drug-related incidents.
Massachusetts State Police Col. Geoffrey Noble emphasized the critical role of law enforcement in disrupting trafficking networks, stating, “The strong partnership and coordination among the DOC and our federal and local partners have helped to keep millions of dollars’ worth of dangerous substances out of the state prison system.”
This urgent situation continues to evolve as authorities ramp up efforts to ensure the safety of both staff and inmates within the Massachusetts correctional system. The DOC and its partners remain committed to tackling this pressing issue head-on.
