New Prisoner Transport Vehicle More Secure

The province's new prisoner-transport van will improve safety and security for sheriff's officers, the public and prisoners.

The Sheriff Services van, based in Halifax, can accommodate 16 prisoners and five sheriff's officers. It was ordered last October and is now in service. A second, similar van is expected to be in service this fall.

"Nova Scotians expect that the province transport people in custody in a manner that is secure and keeps the public safe," said Justice Minister Ross Landry. "These new vans are state of the art and have great track records in other jurisdictions where they are used. They will reduce incidents related to the transportation of prisoners and also reduce costs."

The van, which replaces two smaller vehicles, cost $238,000. It is expected to save the province more than $20,000 annually over its 20-year lifespan through reduced fuel use and capital expenditures.

Features of the 7.9-metre vehicle include:

• eight cells capable of holding two prisoners per cell for a total load of 16 prisoners, reducing number of trips and therefore cost
• more flexible side loading of prisoners
• enhanced closed-circuit television and digital recording equipment to allow better monitoring of prisoners
• independent ventilation for the cells, which will reduce idling and fuel costs
• a larger cab to allow more officers to ride along, if required, improving security

Sheriff Services transports more than 20,000 prisoners annually.