The Quebec government is implementing new strategies to prevent contraband from entering its detention facilities. As part of this initiative, a 12-month trial program will be launched at the Roberval Detention Centre, situated 350 kilometers northeast of Montreal, where inmates will be required to wear uniforms starting in September.
According to the Public Security Ministry, the decision to have inmates wear uniforms aims to streamline the search process, differentiate inmates from staff and visitors, and eliminate any association with criminal groups that could lead to violence. Currently, detainees in Quebec detention centers wear their own clothes, which has led to issues such as smuggling illicit items like drugs, as stated by Isabelle Mailloux, director of the Réseau correctionnel de Montréal.
Mailloux highlighted that the use of personal clothing has enabled inmates to conceal drugs within seams or shoes, sometimes using innovative methods like soaking clothes in illegal substances. To address these challenges, the government plans to invest $35 million in enhancing security at detention facilities in 2023.
The uniform will comprise basic and comfortable attire, including cotton-polyester T-shirts, long-sleeved sweatshirts, sweatpants, sweat shorts, shoes, socks, and underwear. The choice of the Roberval facility for the pilot project is due to its sewing workshop where inmates can craft their pants, promoting social reintegration through employment, according to Quebec’s Domestic Security Minister Ian Lafrenière.
In addition to the uniform requirement, the government is implementing stricter disciplinary measures. Amendments to the Règlement d’application de la Loi sur le système correctionnel du Québec, effective as of September 28, will enable staff to report misconduct in broader situations, including the delivery of prohibited items by drones. Mailloux emphasized the challenge posed by drones, with statistics indicating a significant number of drone sightings at Quebec’s detention centers.
The revised disciplinary system will allow for harsher penalties for severe misconduct, such as smuggling cellphones or causing damage to infrastructure. These penalties may involve community service, suspension of canteen privileges, or extended periods of isolation, taking into consideration the inmates’ physical and mental well-being. The government intends to assess the outcomes of the pilot project to determine the potential implementation of mandatory inmate uniforms across all Quebec detention facilities.