New reports confirm that Massachusetts correction officers are raising urgent alarms about rampant drug smuggling into state prisons, stating that “officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake.” This comes after the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) reported a significant crackdown that led to the seizure of over **$9 million** worth of contraband, including synthetic cannabinoids and other dangerous substances.
Just this week, the DOC-Mass State Police Task Force revealed they have opened **26 cases** related to drug smuggling, resulting in multiple arrests. Authorities confiscated staggering amounts of drugs: **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 majority of these cases involve individuals attempting to deliver these substances directly to inmates.
Despite these significant efforts, the Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union insists that “more needs to be done.” The union emphasized, “The smuggling of illicit drugs into our prisons is a serious danger. Our officers’ and inmates’ lives are at stake.” They have urged the DOC to enhance partnerships to combat this ongoing crisis effectively.
Last year, the dangerous impact of drug smuggling was highlighted when a correction officer at **MCI-Shirley** was knocked unconscious after exposure to synthetic cannabinoids. The officer required **Narcan** four times and suffered multiple seizures, underscoring the life-threatening risks associated with these incidents.
According to DOC officials, drug smuggling is a nationwide issue. Public Safety and Security Secretary **Gina Kwon** stated, “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.” She praised the collaboration between the DOC and the Massachusetts State Police, which has proven effective in disrupting illegal activities through enhanced enforcement and technology.
Recent operations have focused on several correctional facilities, including **MCI-Shirley**, **MCI-Norfolk**, and **Old Colony Correctional Center** in Bridgewater. For example, at MCI-Shirley, officers apprehended a woman attempting to conceal a balloon containing **11 stamp-sized pieces** of synthetic cannabinoids in her mouth. Meanwhile, an investigation at MCI-Norfolk uncovered an inmate hiding a substantial quantity of K2 inside baby powder containers, valued at nearly **$250,000**.
DOC Commissioner **Shawn Jenkins** remarked, “These arrests underscore our commitment to holding accountable those who disregard the health and safety of our colleagues and those in our care.” He acknowledged the crucial role of law enforcement partnerships in thwarting trafficking networks targeting correctional facilities.
The DOC has also implemented the **Unknown Substance Response Policy**, which includes procuring new personal protective equipment for personnel responding to incidents involving illicit drugs. **Mass State Police Col. Geoffrey Noble** affirmed the task force’s efforts, stating, “The strong partnership and coordination among the DOC and our federal and local partners have helped to keep millions of dollars’ worth of dangerous substances out of the state prison system.”
As the investigation continues, correction officers and officials are calling for enhanced measures to ensure the safety of all staff and inmates. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated, as the ongoing threat of drug smuggling looms large within Massachusetts correctional facilities.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities strive to strengthen security and combat this critical issue.
