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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To BC Corrections
Regarding oversight and accountability
Recommendation 26: Track and report publicly on all uses of force against prisoners, broken down by type (physical handling, OC spray, ERT, etc). Disaggregate data by race, gender, disability and centre.-
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To BC Corrections
Regarding post-use of force practices
Recommendation 31: Amend the Adult Custody Policy to require decontamination showers (unshackled and with soap, for as long as necessary for proper decontamination) and fresh clothing to be provided immediately. The decontamination process should be videotaped (with provisions made to ensure privacy is protected).-
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To Correctional Service Canada
Regarding prisoner voices and prisoners’ access to their own personal information
Recommendation 76: Provide prisoners and their counsel the opportunity to see video of uses of force against them upon request. Provide officers’ observation reports and a copy of all use of force reviews without requiring a Privacy Act request from the prisoner.-
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