Report into Escape

An escape from a sheriff's van in Dartmouth was the result of defective security windows and no handcuffs on the offender, says an investigative report issued today, March 30.

The escape occurred on Feb. 15, at about 9:30 a.m. The offender was at large in the community for several hours before being arrested by police.

"Nova Scotians expect that we transport people in custody in a manner that is secure and keeps the public safe," said Justice Minister Ross Landry. "In this case, proper procedures were not followed, and that is not acceptable. We have taken the necessary action to help ensure this doesn't happen again, including making changes to the containment windows to ensure they are secure."

The investigation's main findings are:

• Two deputy sheriffs responsible for the transportation did not handcuff the man before leaving the Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility that morning
• The window in the secure containment unit was defective and did not meet Sheriff's services standards.
• The two deputy sheriffs did not maintain adequate supervision of the offenders in the containment unit while they were being transported
• Leg restraints were put on the man, but while he was at large he was able to remove the restraint from one leg.

A number of steps have been taken to prevent a similar incident. They are:

• Secure glass in all containment units has been examined and replaced as necessary
• Secure glass in all containment has been reinforced by metal screens or bars
• A review will look into the risk assessment procedure and the process of loading offenders at Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility
• Sheriff managers are required to regularly monitor restraints for defective mechanisms and replace as necessary.

The report can be found at www.gov.ns.ca/just/updates.asp.