URGENT UPDATE: Massachusetts correction officers are raising alarms as drug smuggling into prisons intensifies. Just this week, the Department of Correction (DOC) reported a series of significant contraband busts, revealing a dangerous trend that puts both officers and inmates at risk.
Officials confirmed that the DOC-Mass State Police Task Force has disrupted attempts to smuggle a staggering amount of drugs, including 110 pages of synthetic cannabinoids and 142 strips of Suboxone. This crackdown has resulted in 26 cases with arrests or charges filed against suspects delivering illicit substances to inmates. The estimated street value of the seized synthetic cannabinoids alone is over $9 million.
The Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union is calling for immediate action, stating, “Our officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake.” This plea follows alarming incidents, including one where a correction officer at MCI-Shirley was hospitalized after exposure to synthetic cannabinoids, requiring Narcan four times.
“While we acknowledge the efforts made, more must be done to combat this serious issue,” the union emphasized. They are urging the DOC to partner with them to enhance safety measures against the influx of K2 and other dangerous drugs.
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.” She praised the collaboration between law enforcement agencies, highlighting how combined efforts can disrupt illegal activities.
Recent operations at facilities such as MCI-Shirley, MCI-Norfolk, and Old Colony Correctional Center yielded alarming results. For instance, at MCI-Shirley, a woman was caught attempting to hide a balloon containing synthetic cannabinoids in her mouth. Meanwhile, officers at MCI-Norfolk discovered an inmate concealing nearly $250,000 worth of K2 inside baby powder containers.
DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins commended the teamwork among state and federal agencies, stating, “These arrests underscore our commitment to holding accountable those who disregard the health and safety of our colleagues and those in our care.” The DOC has also implemented new safety measures, including the Unknown Substance Response Policy, to equip personnel better in handling such dangerous situations.
Mass State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble affirmed, “The strong partnership among the DOC and our federal and local partners has helped keep millions of dollars’ worth of harmful substances out of the state prison system.”
With drug smuggling being a nationwide crisis, the DOC continues to adapt its strategies, employing enforcement, technology, and education to combat the influx of illicit substances. The community is urged to remain vigilant as these developments unfold.
As this situation evolves, the Massachusetts DOC and law enforcement agencies are expected to ramp up their efforts to tackle this pressing issue. Stay tuned for further updates on this critical situation.
