UPDATE: Massachusetts correction officers are raising alarms about escalating drug smuggling in state prisons, emphasizing that “officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake.” This urgent call for action follows a series of recent busts by the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) and the Mass State Police Task Force, which intercepted significant quantities of illicit substances.
Just this week, officials confirmed that the task force has opened 26 cases, resulting in multiple arrests for drug smuggling. Authorities seized 110 pages of synthetic cannabinoids, 142 strips of Suboxone, 120 pills of Oxycodone, and 17 doses of fentanyl, among other dangerous drugs. The estimated value of the seized cannabinoids exceeds $9 million, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Despite these efforts, the Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union insists “more needs to be done.” The union’s statement reflects growing concerns about the safety of correction officers and inmates as drug trafficking continues to pose a significant threat.
“While we agree that the findings are serious, this is just one step,” the union stated. “Our officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake. We want our officers to feel safe when they go to work.”
The alarming trend of drug smuggling is not unique to Massachusetts. It is a nationwide crisis, prompting the DOC to enhance its response through a combination of enforcement, technology, and educational programs for inmates regarding the dangers of drugs. Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon emphasized, “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.”
Key incidents reported by the task force include arrests at various facilities, such as MCI-Shirley, MCI-Norfolk, and Old Colony Correctional Center in Bridgewater. One notable case involved a woman attempting to conceal a balloon containing synthetic cannabinoids in her mouth at MCI-Shirley. Another investigation at MCI-Norfolk uncovered a large quantity of K2 hidden in baby powder containers, valued at nearly $250,000.
In a statement, DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins praised the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and the DOC. “These arrests underscore our commitment to holding accountable those who disregard the health and safety of our colleagues and those in our care,” he said.
The DOC has also implemented an Unknown Substance Response Policy, which includes investing in new personal protective equipment to safeguard personnel during drug investigations.
Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble highlighted the importance of the task force’s work 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,” he stated.
As drug smuggling continues to be a grave concern, the DOC and correction officers are calling for immediate action to enhance security measures and protect the safety of all involved.
The situation is developing, and authorities urge the public and media to stay tuned for further updates as they work tirelessly to combat this pressing issue.
