Sask. Penitentiary inmate dies “as an apparent result” of COVID-19 related complications

(Herald file photo)

An inmate at Saskatchewan Penitentiary died on Friday at an outside hospital “as an apparent result” of COVID-19 related complications.

Correctional Services of Canada (CSC) announced the death in a press release sent early Saturday afternoon.

“The Correctional Service of Canada extends it’s condolences to the family,” the release stated.

The inmate’s next of kin has been notified of his death.

In all cases of inmate deaths, the CSC has notified the coroner who will review the circumstances of the death.

This marks the fourth federal inmate who has died with a COVID-19 diagnosis since the start of the pandemic, according to CSC.

Following the Privacy Act, CSC is allowed to “release certain information at the time of a death in custody.”

“To provide transparency during this pandemic, CSC is disclosing the deaths linked to COVID-19 while respecting privacy and the protection of personal information by not disclosing the name of the inmate or their personal medical details,” the CSC added.

The CSC releases COVID-19 testing data on their website.

As of Jan. 7, there are 69 active cases of COVID-19 at Saskatchewan Penitentiary.

There are health services and medical professionals at all federal institutions.

“We also work closely and collaboratively with local public heath partners and hospitals to provide complete and quality medical care to those who need it and to prevent further spread of COVID-19.”

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