Myth vs Reality
True or False: In real BC provincial correctional centres, adults wear bright orange or black-and-white striped jumpsuits all day just like on television.
False: Individuals in custody typically wear standard, comfortable utility clothing like green, blue, or red scrubs/sweats depending on their classification or work program.
True or False: Officers work alone.
False.
What are 'Ghost Guns'?
3D printed or privately manufactured firearms.
Anti-gang units like CFSEU-BC have seen a major spike in the seizure of automated "clandestine labs" dedicated to manufacturing untraceable firearm receivers using this consumer technology. These are considered strict prohibited firearms and can carry the maximum prison sentence of 14 years.
At the Fraser Regional Correctional Centre, a unique environmental work program allows clients to work alongside a local society to raise and release millions of these iconic BC fish.
Salmon.
Cappin'
Lying
BC Corrections looks after adults who are awaiting trial or serving a provincial sentence. A provincial sentence is any jail term that is less than this many years.
2 years
If a major unexpected emergency happens inside a facility, a highly trained, elite group of officers called the ERT is called in. ERT stands for this.
Emergency Response Team
According to the Criminal Code Section 46.7.1, a “criminal organization” must consist of at least this many people.
3
Instead of relying solely on physical barriers, officers practice "dynamic supervision," which means they do this constantly with clients to prevent problems before they start.
Interacting, communicating, or building professional relationships
Jimmy
A new inmate who is unfamiliar with jail culture and/or a newer staff member also unfamiliar with the jail culture.
True or False: If an individual in custody gets sick or needs a doctor, it is a Correctional Officer who provides their medical treatment and prescribes their medicine.
False. Healthcare is completely independent—run by medical professionals from the Ministry of Health/BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services.
What is the main goal of a Correctional Officer?
Help people safely rejoin the community.
How many criminal groups are active in BC.
188
Nearly 70% of individuals entering BC provincial custody face challenges with mental health or this specific type of health issue, which BC Corrections works hard to treat.
Substance Use / Addiction
Two-Two's
Swear on my life
True or False: Inmates can get tattoos in jail.
False.
How many provincial correctional centres are there in BC?
10 - Victoria, Nanaimo, Maple Ridge (x2), Port Coquitlam, Surrey, Prince George, Chilliwack, Oliver, Kamloops.
This newer trend involves illicit sale and distribution of a specific product within schools. Youth are recruited by peers to sell these items; if they fall short or are robbed, they are hit with a "gang debt", forcing them deeper into criminal compliance for pay off.
Vaping Hook
This tamper-resistant device is worn on the body and tracks the wearer's location and enforces rules set by courts, probation officers, or other supervising authorities.
Ankle monitor / electronic ankle bracelet.
Mandem
A group of male friends or associates. It is derived from Jamaican Patois, where "man" means "the men" and "dem" means "them". It signifies a close-knit group of friends who share a strong bond and support one another.
True or False: Correctional Officers in BC Corrections are issued guns.
False. Our main tool for de-escalation is communication. We can use: OC spray, batons, handcuffs, CEW.
Before an officer can specialize or promote, they have to master the core foundation of jail operations. What is the official job title of the frontline officer who is permanently assigned inside a specific housing unit to manage the day-to-day routines, meals, security checks, and overall safety of the inmates living there?
Living Unit Officer
True or False: If you are driving a vehicle in BC and your passenger is carrying concealed illicit items or firearms, only the passenger faces criminal charges.
False. Under Canadian law, "constructive possession" or joint possession means if you are the driver and have knowledge and control over what is happening in that vehicle, you can be charged equally. A criminal record at 18 instantly closes the door on international travel, border crossings, and hundreds of professional careers.
When probation officers meet with people in the community, they model good behavior and teach problem-solving skills. By about how much can this help cut down the chances of someone getting into trouble again?
A) 5%
B) 10%
C) 30%
D) 80%
C)30% - By acting as coaches instead of just rule-enforcers, officers help people make massive, lasting changes in their lives.
Brisco
Someone who is tough, fearless and unafraid to take risks. A true Brisco is characterized by being resourceful, street-smart and loyal to their crew. They embody the spirit of taking action and making a name for themselves in the gang culture.