Seven inmates from Nanaimo Correctional Centre were sent to hospital after taking what they thought was an illegal drug, but which turned out to be a much more harmful substance.
B.C. Corrections confirmed the incident happened June 13, but said the other details surrounding it, including what substances were involved, are still being confirmed. All but one of the inmates were released from Nanaimo Regional General Hospital and returned to custody. The inmate who remained behind for further treatment was expected to be released by Friday, said Marnie Mayhew, B.C. Corrections director in an e-mail to the News Bulletin. Mayhew said she was unable to provide details due to privacy issues, but went on to say B.C. Corrections did not know what substance was ingested or how it was obtained.
“It is unknown at this time what substance the inmates ingested and that is something we are investigating,” she said. “Despite available supports and strict protocols, people with addictions will take extraordinary measures in an attempt to become intoxicated. B.C. Corrections will look at ways to reduce the likelihood of this happening again. While we have not completed our investigation, so far we have determined illegal contraband was not a factor. Any further details will not be released pending the final outcome of looking into the circumstances of this matter.”