FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 06, 2023
June 06, 2023
Contact:
Tim Kauffman
202-639-6405/202-374-6491
[email protected]
USP Canaan Staff, Inmates Risk Exposure to Dangerous Drugs, Union Says
Categories:
BOP, District 3
AFGE Local 3003 says influx of dangerous drugs through mail poses risk to officers, inmates
WAYMART, Pa. – American Federation of Government Employees Local 3003 is sounding the alarm over the continued influx of drugs inside USP Canaan that pose health risks to both correctional staff and inmates at the high-security federal prison.
Additionally, the local says it’s unacceptable that a recent correctional officer assault is being minimized by prison management as a drug-induced act.
“It seems that USP Canaan is having an inmate accountability issue. Specifically, holding inmates accountable for their crimes inside of the institution by instead creating excuses for their behaviors,” AFGE Local 3003 President Dave Demas said.
“One of our missions is that of public safety. Mail is being circulated with inmates’ mail that is potentially soaked in life threatening drugs. For example, a birthday card for your child could be circulated in the same batch of mail as mail soaked in K2,” Demas said.
This is an issue that affects more than correctional officers and inmates. The contaminated mail travels to the prison via the U.S. Postal Service, potentially affecting mail carriers and their families.
“This issue is much larger than a penitentiary in your backyard having a drug issue. It’s your issue as community member. The Bureau of Prisons needs to act on this,” Demas said.
AFGE Local 3003’s e-board is calling for action to protect loved ones, community members, and neighbors working inside the walls of the prison.
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