Prisoners claim COVID-19 regulations caused mental distress in lawsuit

Prisoners in federal prisons across Canada claim to have experienced troubling conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. A class-action lawsuit, filed five years ago against the Canadian government, took a significant step forward recently when the British Columbia Supreme Court officially certified the class of inmates involved in the legal action. The inmates involved allege that they were subjected to unjust treatment during the pandemic, with specific complaints about excessive periods of isolation and limited interaction with other individuals.

Plaintiff Dean Roberts, an inmate serving time for multiple murders at B.C.’s Mission Institution, provided a disturbing account of the impact of the pandemic on prisoners. Roberts revealed in a sworn affidavit that the pandemic-induced measures led to confusion and despair among the inmates. One inmate even resorted to sewing his lips together as a response to the distress caused by the restrictive measures.

As the pandemic unfolded, Roberts described how prison authorities implemented new protocols that disrupted the daily routines of inmates, causing turmoil and distress. He highlighted the significance of routine within the prison environment, noting that the predictability and stability of daily activities are essential for inmates. However, the unpredictable nature of the pandemic and the ensuing changes to procedures shattered this sense of order, plunging inmates into a state of confusion and chaos.

Roberts explained how the solitary confinement and the uncertainty surrounding the duration of such isolation contributed to heightened emotional distress among inmates. The absence of clarity on when the stringent measures would be lifted added to the already severe mental strain experienced by inmates during the pandemic. The sudden disruption to their established routines and the lack of social interaction exacerbated feelings of fear, anxiety, and emotional turmoil among prisoners.

The certification of the class-action lawsuit represents a significant step towards addressing the concerns raised by inmates regarding the treatment they endured during the COVID-19 pandemic. By granting certification to the class of prisoners involved, the British Columbia Supreme Court acknowledged the validity of their claims and the need for a legal remedy to address the alleged violations of their rights.

The plight of prisoners during the pandemic sheds light on the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in times of crisis. The experiences recounted by inmates like Dean Roberts underscore the importance of upholding human rights and dignity, even in the face of unprecedented challenges. As the legal process moves forward, the outcome of this class-action lawsuit will be closely watched to determine the extent of accountability and justice that will be delivered to those who suffered during the tumultuous period of the COVID-19 pandemic.