Yarmouth Incident Prompts Changes

After reviewing the circumstances that led to the recent escape of two offenders from the Yarmouth Correctional Centre, several changes will be made to tighten security and upgrade procedures.

A range of recommendations will be put in place immediately, while others will be phased in over the next several months.

They include:

• procedures relating to phone privileges will be changed to ensure greater control of movement within the institution

• answering machines will be used to record incoming calls when officers are occupied

• when offenders must be moved within the institution, two officers will accompany the individual when warranted

• the Yarmouth detachment of the RCMP will be provided with a key to allow for access in case of an emergency

• monitors, with recording capability, will be placed outside the cell areas to allow staff to observe inmate activity before rounds are conducted

• processes relating to security checks will be reviewed and updated, and

• meetings will be held with local fire service and RCMP personnel to ensure contingency plans are in place in the event of an emergency.

"It is important that we learn from every incident. The steps we are taking will strengthen our security measures," said Fred Honsberger, executive director of Corrections. "We are thankful that no one was hurt, and want to commend police for their assistance in apprehending the two individuals so quickly."

The Yarmouth Correctional Centre has a capacity for 15 inmates and was built in 1862.