Time to pull the plug on Playstations and other video games in provincial jails

Former guard alleges jail has gambling with cash prizes for inmates, tranquil bird baths and big screen Tvs for watching the NHL playoffs

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) is calling on Justice Minister Andrew Swan to investigate troubling allegations made by a former guard turned whistleblower about five-star conditions at the Headingley Jail.

The anonymous letter describes a relaxing lifestyle for “baby rapists” and other criminals at the jail – access to Playstation 3 video games like Guitar Hero, big screen TVs to watch the NHL playoffs, a “treatment centre” that is full of bird baths, hanging baskets and freshly planted flowers, BBQ’s and card and bingo games with cash prizes.

“We recently confirmed the outrageous reality that public funds are being spent on video games in provincial jails,” said CTF Prairie Director Colin Craig. “That much we know. But we’re seeking clarification on whether or not public funds are being spent on big screen TVs, cash prizes during bingo and card games, the amount of exercise equipment in jails and the other allegations.”

“It’s no wonder why Manitoba has a high reoffending rate,” added Craig. “When you make provincial jails more comfortable and relaxing than it is living on the outside, why wouldn’t these offenders want to come back? If the province is serious about getting tough on crime it will pull the plug on such perks today.”

“Some might try and split hairs and claim these aren’t public dollars as they come from canteen profits in provincial jails,” added Craig. “However, if the profits from a drink machine at Birds Hill Park were used to buy the park ranger a Nintendo and liquor cabinet for his office, there would an outcry from citizens. The canteen’s profits should be used to offset the cost to taxpayers for the jails, not on luxury items for prisoners.”

To view the former guard’s letter, click here.