CONTENT WARNING: Some details in this story may be distressing
The Ministry of Corrections, Policing, and Public Safety has been given 11 recommendations following the public inquest into an in-custody death at the Saskatoon Provincial Correctional Centre.
Randal Nicotine, of Red Pheasant First Nation, died while on remand at the facility in May 2019.
An inquest took place this week examining the circumstances around his death.
MBC News coverage of the inquest can be found here and here.
At the end of the inquest a jury of 6 people handed out 11 recommendations to help prevent similar deaths in the future.
All the recommendations include increases in staff, more mental health supports and other policy changes.
A full list of recommendations given to the Ministry are as follows:
-
SCC should have a nurse on site at all times.
-
Have daily access to counselors and addictions councelors.
-
Randomize cell check times.
-
Increase staff to three, one in control room, two for checks.
-
Officers should have mock drills on suicide events at regular intervals.
-
Construct or rent facilities to ensure a location for mock drills.
-
Those who’ve been released from suicide watch should have mandatory visits with a psychiatrist.
-
Ensure that officers read CJMIS file on all incoming prisoners.
-
Have psychiatrist visits three times a week, four hours each day.
-
Have suicide screening be done by a medical professional.
-
Screen inmates in suicide watch for any and all mental health issues.