Detectives have charged a Corrective Services NSW employee after knives, tobacco and prescription medication were located in a vehicle at a correctional centre in Sydney’s north-west.
In May this year, detectives from the Corrective Services Investigation Unit commenced an investigation under Strike Force Cantrill following reports of corrupt activity by a male Corrective Services employee.
Following extensive inquiries, officers arrested a 37-year-old man during a vehicle stop at a correctional facility in Sydney’s north-west about 1.30am yesterday (Wednesday 8 July 2020).
During a subsequent search of the vehicle, strike force detectives, with the assistance of the Dog Unit, seized two large hunting knives, about 65g of tobacco, a mobile phone, prescription medication, and other personal items.
A short time later, officers executed a search warrant at a home at Jordan Springs and seized a mobile phone, $3000 cash, ammunition and cannabis.
All items seized during the operation will undergo forensic examination.
The man was taken to Windsor Police Station and charged with five counts of agent corruptly receive benefit, knowingly deal with proceeds of crime, possess prohibited drug, stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm, supply prohibited drug (indictable quantity) and supply prohibited drug.
Police will allege in court that the man, who is employed as a truck driver for Corrective Services NSW, trafficked contraband into the facility for financial benefits from the family members of inmates.
He was granted strict conditional bail to appear at Windsor Local Court on Thursday 30 July 2020.
The man has been suspended by Corrective Services NSW.
Corrective Services Investigation Unit Commander, Detective Inspector Rob Hollows, said this is another example of the collaborative work being conducted by police and Corrective Services NSW.
“Investigations under Strike Force Cantrill began as a result of information received from our counterparts at Corrective Services NSW,” Det Insp Hollows said.
“Offences detected within state-wide correctional facilities are taken extremely seriously by both agencies, and together we will always take swift and appropriate action.
“These arrests should serve as a timely reminder to any employee, inmate or relative, who works at, resides within or visits correctional facilities, that illicit activities will be identified and thoroughly investigated,” Det Insp Hollows said.
Investigations under Strike Force Cantrill are continuing.
