Report Finds Nearly Half of Canadian Inmate Suicides Take Place in Segregation

canada102A recently completed three year review of federal inmate suicides in Canada show that nearly half occurred in segregation cells – which are supposed to be under close supervision – prompting the chief correctional investigator Howard Sapers, to raise questions about the treatment of mentally ill inmates in the system.

“It is concerning that these individuals were able to find the means to end their lives in an area of the prison where safety, security and surveillance protocols are elevated,” Sapers said. Suicide is the leading cause of inmate deaths in Canada, yet despite a previous directive, there has been no work undertaken to identify and remove suspension points in segregation cells.

Will this new report be a wake up call for Canada’s correctional system? Read more at ctvnews.caarrow1