UPDATE: Massachusetts correction officers have raised an urgent alarm over escalating drug smuggling into state prisons, emphasizing that “officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake” following a recent report detailing significant contraband busts. The Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) and the Massachusetts State Police Task Force have intercepted large quantities of illicit drugs, including K2 and synthetic cannabinoids, just this week.
Authorities confirmed that the task force has opened 26 cases, resulting in arrests or charges against multiple suspects attempting to deliver drugs to inmates. The seized contraband includes 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. The estimated street value of the cannabinoids alone exceeds $9 million.
Despite these significant efforts, the Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union insists that “more needs to be done” to tackle this ongoing crisis. The union’s statement underscores the severity of the situation, emphasizing the risks posed to both correction officers and inmates. “This is just one step; our officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake,” the union stated, calling for a partnership with the DOC to enhance measures against drug trafficking.
“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,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon.
The DOC’s crackdown comes in response to a nationwide issue of drug smuggling in correctional facilities. Last year, an incident at MCI-Shirley left a correction officer unconscious after exposure to synthetic cannabinoids, highlighting the dangerous environment created by these illicit substances. The officer required Narcan four times and experienced multiple seizures as a result.
Officials have reported that some of the most notable busts occurred at MCI-Shirley, MCI-Norfolk, and Old Colony Correctional Center in Bridgewater. At MCI-Shirley, investigators apprehended a woman attempting to conceal contraband in her mouth. In another case at MCI-Norfolk, an inmate was found with $250,000 worth of K2 hidden in baby powder containers.
“I want to thank the DOC and MSP investigators for their shared commitment to the safety and security of incarcerated individuals and DOC staff,” Kwon added.
DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins praised the collaborative efforts of law enforcement in intercepting these dangerous substances. The task force’s work has effectively disrupted trafficking networks targeting correctional facilities, with significant contributions from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and local law enforcement partners.
Additionally, the DOC has implemented the Unknown Substance Response Policy, which includes new protective gear for staff responding to incidents involving illicit drugs. “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,” said Mass State Police Col. Geoffrey Noble.
As the situation develops, correctional officers are urging immediate action to further enhance security measures within state prisons. The need for a comprehensive strategy to combat drug smuggling has never been more critical, with lives hanging in the balance.
For ongoing updates and developments, stay tuned as authorities continue their efforts to address this urgent public safety issue.
