Minister Day comments on the death of a federal offender in custody

October 24, 2007 — The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety, made the following statement today:

"I have been informed that there was a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a federal inmate on October 19, 2007, at Grand Valley Institution. I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Ms. Ashley Smith's family.

As always, whenever there is a death in custody, the police conduct a separate investigation into the circumstances. Today, we have been advised that charges have been laid against two staff members as a result of the police investigation. Police anticipate the arrest of a third person in connection with this incident.

In conjunction with this investigation, Correctional Service Canada (CSC) has taken immediate action to convene a separate investigation into Ms. Smith's death. The CSC investigation will review the circumstances surrounding the incident, including any issues of compliance with the law, policies and procedures.

This incident is extremely disturbing and of serious concern to me. I expect that it will be addressed in an expedient, efficient and sensitive manner, after which appropriate action will be taken."

Information:

Mélisa Leclerc
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Stockwell Day
Minister of Public Safety
613-991-2863