BREAKING: Massachusetts correction officers are raising urgent concerns over rampant drug smuggling in state prisons, emphasizing that “officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake.” This alarm follows a recent report from the Department of Correction (DOC), which disclosed significant contraband busts involving dangerous substances.
Authorities reported that the DOC-Massachusetts State Police Task Force has intercepted “significant quantities” of drugs, including K2 and synthetic cannabinoids, from entering correctional facilities. The task force has initiated 26 cases, leading to multiple arrests and charges primarily for drug deliveries to inmates.
In a staggering haul, investigators seized 110 pages of synthetic cannabinoids, 142 strips of Suboxone, 120 pills of Oxycodone, 17 doses of fentanyl, 2 grams of heroin, and 4.5 grams of THC. The estimated street value of the confiscated cannabinoids exceeds $9 million.
Despite these actions, the Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union insists that “more needs to be done.” In a statement, the union highlighted the ongoing dangers posed by the smuggling of illicit drugs, stating, “Our officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake. We have repeatedly petitioned the DOC to partner in efforts to eliminate K2 and other dangerous drugs that jeopardize safety.”
The urgency of this situation is underscored by a recent incident where a correction officer at MCI-Shirley was hospitalized after exposure to a synthetic cannabinoid. The officer required four doses of Narcan and suffered multiple seizures.
Drug smuggling remains a pervasive issue in correctional facilities nationwide. The DOC has responded with a multifaceted approach, combining enforcement, technology, and staff training, along with educational initiatives for inmates on the risks of drug use. “Preventing dangerous drugs and contraband from entering state prisons is essential to protecting the safety and health of all who live and work across DOC facilities,” stated Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon.
Kwon praised the collaborative efforts of the DOC and Massachusetts State Police, stating, “The results of this joint effort demonstrate what is possible when law enforcement partners combine enforcement, intelligence, and technology to disrupt illegal activity.”
Recent investigations have targeted facilities including MCI-Shirley, MCI-Norfolk, and Old Colony Correctional Center. At MCI-Shirley, officers apprehended a woman trying to conceal contraband in her mouth, leading to the discovery of a balloon containing 11 stamp-sized pieces of synthetic cannabinoids. Similarly, at MCI-Norfolk, an inmate was found with a large quantity of K2 hidden in baby powder containers, valued at nearly $250,000.
The DOC is also implementing an Unknown Substance Response Policy, which includes acquiring new personal protective equipment to enhance officer safety during drug-related incidents. “This Task Force’s work reinforces the critical role law enforcement plays in disrupting trafficking networks that target correctional facilities,” noted Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble.
The DOC continues to advocate for stronger measures and partnerships to ensure the safety of both staff and inmates. “We are committed to holding accountable those who disregard the health and safety of our colleagues and those in our care,” DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins concluded.
As this situation develops, the DOC and its law enforcement partners remain vigilant, aiming to thwart further attempts to smuggle drugs into the state prison system. The community is urged to stay informed as these critical efforts unfold.
