UPDATE: Massachusetts correction officers are urgently calling for enhanced measures to combat the escalating drug smuggling crisis in state prisons. The alarm was raised following a significant report from the Department of Correction (DOC) detailing multiple arrests linked to drug trafficking within correctional facilities.
Just this week, the DOC-Massachusetts State Police Task Force revealed it has intercepted “significant quantities” of illicit substances, including K2 and synthetic cannabinoids. Investigators have opened 26 cases, leading to numerous arrests, with the majority involving individuals attempting to deliver drugs to inmates.
In a dramatic bust, authorities seized over $9 million worth of contraband, including 110 pages of synthetic cannabinoids, 142 strips of Suboxone, 120 pills of Oxycodone, 17 doses of fentanyl, 2 grams of heroin, and 4.5 grams of THC. This alarming trend poses a direct threat to the safety of both correction officers and inmates alike.
The Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union emphasized the urgent need for action. “Our officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake,” the union stated. They echoed concerns that current measures are insufficient, insisting on a partnership with the DOC to more effectively eliminate dangerous drugs and weapons from state facilities.
Last year, an incident at MCI-Shirley highlighted the dangers of drug exposure, when a correction officer was rendered unconscious after coming into contact with a synthetic cannabinoid. The officer required Narcan treatment multiple times and suffered several seizures, underscoring the life-threatening risks involved.
Drug smuggling into prisons is a widespread issue across the United States. In response, the DOC has been combining enforcement efforts, advanced technology, staff training, and inmate education on the dangers of drug use. “Preventing dangerous drugs from entering state prisons is essential to protecting the safety and health of all who live and work across DOC facilities,” stated Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon.
The joint efforts of the DOC and Massachusetts State Police have already shown results, with several operations conducted at facilities including MCI-Shirley, MCI-Norfolk, and Old Colony Correctional Center in Bridgewater. In one notable instance at MCI-Shirley, investigators apprehended a woman attempting to hide contraband in her mouth, which contained 11 stamp-sized pieces of synthetic cannabinoids. At MCI-Norfolk, an inmate was found with K2 concealed in baby powder containers, valued at nearly $250,000.
The DOC has expressed commitment to improving safety measures, including the implementation of an Unknown Substance Response Policy. This includes purchasing new personal protective equipment for staff responding to incidents involving illicit substances. “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.
Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble emphasized the critical role of law enforcement in disrupting trafficking networks targeting correctional facilities. “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,” Noble added.
As this urgent situation continues to develop, the DOC and law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in their efforts to curb drug smuggling, ensuring the safety of officers and inmates alike. The call for more robust action resonates deeply, as the lives of many hang in the balance.
Stay tuned for further updates on this critical issue affecting Massachusetts correctional facilities.
