THUNDER BAY - The recent announcement of a Thunder Bay correctional officer charged with breach of trust and drug trafficking offences has left staff at the district jail feeling shocked, according to the union’s president.
Correctional officer and president of OPSEU Local 737, Bill Hayes spoke publicly of the charges against Andy Saindon, 38, a correctional officer at the Thunder Bay District Jail. Hayes heads the union which represents the workers at the jail's facility.
“These types of situations are always tough whether they happen in Thunder Bay or across the province,” Hayes said. “It leaves the rest of us, officers, with a black eye. It’s tough to come back from.”
On Wednesday, June 24, Thunder Bay police announced the arrest of Saindon who is accused of breach of trust and drug trafficking within the institution.
Saindon appeared in court Thursday and was released from custody on a $7,500 release order with no deposit.
Thunder Bay police say they began their investigation in April which focused on a prison guard who was suspected of using their position to bring contraband into the jail for profit.
A search warrant obtained by police resulted in the seizure of drugs, drug trafficking paraphernalia and approximately $20,000 in cash.
Police say the search of the employee’s locker led officers to find contents packaged in a way that is consistent with concealable during body searches.
Hayes who worked with Saindon many times spoke briefly on Thursday, June 25, of the charges against him.
“The majority of our officers are very hardworking, caring individuals,” Hayes said.
Det.-Insp. John Fennell of the Thunder Bay Police Service described breach of trust charges as 'concerning and rare' on Wednesday. Hayes agreed with the police saying he hopes this incident acts as a deterrent to others.
“It’s definitely not a common thing,” Hayes said. “ It shows that people are paying attention and there is somebody watching at all times. It doesn’t go unnoticed.”
Hayes also spoke of the impact the criminal charges have on the public.
“These things have consequences far beyond these walls,” he said. “Unfortunately a lot of the good, hard work these officers do doesn’t come to light as much as these negative stories.”
Hayes explained how correctional officers work tirelessly in order to prevent contraband from coming in the jail.
“When you hear stories like this it’s kind of just a slap in the face,” he said.
