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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Health authorities
To the Provincial Health Services Authority
Recommendation 39: Require staff to make all reasonable efforts to ensure this assessment is not mediated by physical barriers such as bars, security glass, door hatches or screens. If officer presence is required for safety reasons, the officer(s) must not have been involved in the use of force.-
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To the Provincial Health Services Authority
Recommendation 40: 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 for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.-
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To the Provincial Health Services Authority
Recommendation 41: Ensure post-use of force medical assessments include a determination of whether the prisoner has been adequately decontaminated, has received clean clothing and bedding, and has a clean cell.-
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To the Provincial Health Services Authority
Recommendation 42: 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/or 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 the Provincial Health Services Authority
Recommendation 43: Conduct an audit of post-use of force medical assessments and clinicians’ compliance with their ethical obligations.-
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To Correctional Service Canada
Regarding healthcare services
Recommendation 64: Provide healthcare independently of CSC through partnerships with provincial health ministries in order to ensure full clinical independence.-
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