UPDATE: Massachusetts correction officers are sounding the alarm on a growing crisis of drug smuggling into state prisons, following a series of significant contraband busts reported by the Department of Correction (DOC). Correction officers emphasize that “officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake” as the DOC and Massachusetts State Police Task Force uncover alarming quantities of illicit substances.
In a shocking announcement this week, authorities confirmed that the joint task force has opened 26 cases, leading to multiple arrests linked to the delivery of prohibited drugs, including 110 pages of synthetic cannabinoids, 142 strips of Suboxone, and 120 pills of Oxycodone. Notably, the seized synthetic cannabinoids alone are estimated to be worth more than $9 million.
The Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union is demanding that “more needs to be done” to combat the dangerous influx of drugs. “Our officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake,” the union stated, urging collaboration with the DOC to enhance efforts in removing drugs and weapons from facilities.
“This is one step and more needs to be done,” the union added. “We want our officers to feel safe when they go to work.”
Last year, a serious incident highlighted the risks involved when a correction officer at MCI-Shirley was hospitalized after exposure to a synthetic cannabinoid, requiring multiple doses of Narcan for recovery. This incident underlines the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in correctional facilities.
Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon reiterated the importance of preventing drug smuggling, stating, “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.” The task force’s recent successes demonstrate the effectiveness of combining enforcement, intelligence, and technology in disrupting illegal activities.
Investigators reported specific busts at various facilities, including:
- At MCI-Shirley, a woman was arrested for attempting to conceal 11 stamp-sized pieces of synthetic cannabinoids.
- At MCI-Norfolk, officers discovered an inmate hiding a large quantity of K2 in baby powder containers, valued at nearly $250,000.
- At the Old Colony Correctional Center, another woman was apprehended for delivering drugs during a visit.
“These arrests underscore our commitment to holding accountable those who disregard the health and safety of our colleagues and those in our care,” said DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins.
The DOC is not only focused on enforcement but is also implementing new policies, such as the Unknown Substance Response Policy, to improve safety for staff responding to potential drug incidents. Additionally, new personal protective equipment has been acquired to ensure personnel safety while handling illicit substances.
Mass State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble emphasized the critical role law enforcement plays in combatting trafficking networks targeting correctional facilities. “The strong partnership among the DOC, federal, and local partners has helped to keep millions of dollars’ worth of dangerous substances out of the state prison system,” he stated.
This alarming situation reflects a larger nationwide trend of drug smuggling into correctional facilities, prompting urgent calls for enhanced security measures. As the DOC continues its fight against this crisis, further developments are expected. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
