BREAKING: Massachusetts correction officers are sounding the alarm on urgent drug smuggling issues within state prisons, following a significant crackdown by the Department of Correction (DOC) and Massachusetts State Police. The DOC has reported several arrests related to drug trafficking, stating that “officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake.”
Authorities revealed that the DOC-Mass State Police Task Force has intercepted “significant quantities” of K2, synthetic cannabinoids, and other illicit substances, leading to a total of 26 cases opened this week. These operations have resulted in arrests and charges primarily against individuals attempting to deliver drugs to inmates.
In a shocking haul, officials seized over 110 pages of synthetic cannabinoids, 142 strips of Suboxone, 120 pills of Oxycodone, 17 doses of fentanyl, two grams of heroin, and 4.5 grams of THC. The estimated street value of the confiscated cannabinoids alone exceeds $9 million.
Despite these efforts, the Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union insists that “more needs to be done.” The union emphasized that the issue of drug smuggling poses a serious risk to both officers and inmates. “Our officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake,” the union stated, calling for a stronger partnership with the DOC to combat the influx of dangerous substances.
“We have repeatedly petitioned the DOC that the union wants to partner with them to do more to remove K2 and other dangerous drugs and weapons,” the union added.
This plea comes in light of a troubling incident last year at MCI-Shirley, where a correction officer was exposed to a synthetic cannabinoid and suffered severe health consequences, including multiple seizures after being administered Narcan four times.
Drug smuggling into correctional facilities is a nationwide concern. DOC officials have indicated that they are tackling this issue through a combination of enhanced enforcement, advanced technology, and staff training. “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,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon.
Recent operations targeted facilities like MCI-Shirley, MCI-Norfolk, and Old Colony Correctional Center. For instance, at MCI-Shirley, investigators apprehended a woman attempting to conceal drugs in her mouth, leading to the discovery of 11 stamp-sized pieces of paper containing synthetic cannabinoids.
In another case at MCI-Norfolk, officers uncovered a large stash of K2 hidden inside baby powder containers, valued at nearly $250,000.
DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins praised the joint efforts, stating, “These arrests underscore our commitment to holding accountable those who disregard the health and safety of our colleagues and those in our care.” He credited the collaboration with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and local law enforcement as pivotal in disrupting drug trafficking.
Additionally, DOC has implemented a new Unknown Substance Response Policy, which includes acquiring new personal protective equipment for staff. Mass State Police Col. Geoffrey Noble reiterated the importance of law enforcement partnerships in this fight, underlining the strong coordination among DOC and federal and local partners.
As the situation continues to develop, the DOC and law enforcement agencies remain focused on enhancing strategies to combat drug smuggling. The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated, given its direct impact on the safety of correctional facilities across the state.
Follow this story for updates as authorities work to ensure the health and safety of both correctional officers and inmates in Massachusetts prisons.
