In June 2019, “Damage/Control: Use of force and the cycle of violence and trauma in BC’s federal and provincial prisons” was published by the West Coast Prison Justice Society/Prisoners’ Legal Services. The report analyzes law and policy governing the use of force by correctional officers in light of interviews with over 100 federal and provincial prisoners. The report finds that both CSC and BC Corrections officers use force in response to prisoners in emotional distress and as a tool to coerce compliance, even when there is no immediate risk to safety. It argues that relying on physical force in these circumstances creates an adversarial environment that compromises safety and wellbeing for both prisoners and staff.
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Government of Canada
To Correctional Service Canada
Regarding post-use of force medical assessments
Recommendation 78: Ensure post-use of force medical assessments include an assessment of the prisoner’s mental state and any potential impact on the prisoner’s mental health. When indicated, monitor and treat prisoners for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.-
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To Correctional Service Canada
Regarding post-use of force medical assessments
Recommendation 79: Amend policy to require that post-use of force medical assessments include a determination of whether the prisoner has received clean clothing and bedding and has a clean cell.-
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To Correctional Service Canada
Regarding post-use of force medical assessments
Recommendation 80: The healthcare professional should complete a written report that includes the prisoner’s account of the incident and their assessment of any physical injuries and psychological impact. This report should be included in the use of force review if the prisoner consents, and a copy should be provided to the prisoner.-
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To Correctional Service Canada
Regarding strip searches and spit masks
Recommendation 81: Conduct an audit of the use of strip searches with a view to reducing or eliminating their use and the resulting humiliation and retraumatization of prisoners.-
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To Correctional Service Canada
Regarding strip searches and spit masks
Recommendation 82: Eliminate the use of spit masks.-
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To the Government of Canada
Recommendation 85: Increase funding to the Office of the Correctional Investigator for use of force reviews to include prisoner interviews.-
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To the Government of Canada
Recommendation 86: Ensure that healthcare for federal prisoners is provided independently from CSC through partnerships with provincial ministries of health. Ensure funding is adequate to make this work.-
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To the Government of Canada
Recommendation 87: Provide funding to allow federal prisoners to be accommodated at provincial psychiatric hospitals when they require this level of care.-
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