Lockdown and search at Dorchester Penitentiary – Medium security unit

May 20, 2026 – Dorchester, New Brunswick – Correctional Service Canada

On May 18, 2026, a lockdown was put in place in the medium security unit at Dorchester Penitentiary, to enable staff members to conduct an exceptional search.

The search was ordered to ensure the safety and security of the institution, its staff, and inmates.

Visits have been suspended until the search is completed. Normal operations will resume as soon as it is considered safe to do so. 

The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is committed to preventing the entry of unauthorized items into its institutions. CSC works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband into correctional institutions.