ARREST MADE IN T.O. JAIL DRUG RING

Hidden In Cigarettes

Jail guards say a canteen worker has been busted for secreting drugs inside
packs of cigarettes meant for Toronto-area inmates and then resealing the
packages.

"It's actually much easier than getting drugs on the street," said Barry
Scanlon, spokesman for the Ontario Public Service Employees Union. "You can
get them delivered right to your cell."

Scanlon said a man was arrested Sunday and charged with smuggling drugs
into Toronto East Detention Centre in Scarborough.

Police could not immediately confirm any details, although a spokesman for
Correctional Services said an arrest had been made.

PERSONALIZED ORDERS

Correctional Services Minister Rob Sampson -- who declined to comment on
any specifics as the case is before the courts -- said if drugs were found
they would take the necessary steps to eradicate the problem.

Scanlon said it's alleged a worker with an American firm contracted to
provide canteen services to Ontario's correctional facilities was slipping
the drugs into personalized orders inmates make for items such as
cigarettes, snacks and toiletries.

The cigarette packs were being opened, drugs inserted and then the packages
resealed to appear as if they'd never been opened, Scanlon said.

OPSEU has called a press conference for today on the issue because of the
dangers drugged-up inmates represent to jail guards.