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In recent years, Canada’s prison system has grappled with a troubling escalation in violence, largely attributed to an unspoken but pervasive set of rules among inmates known as the “con code.” This phenomenon has led to numerous incidents of brutal assaults and even fatalities, compelling advocates for prison reform to call for serious attention from the legal system. As documented cases unfold, the chilling reality of inmate culture raises urgent questions about safety and accountability within correctional facilities.
Understanding the “Con Code”
The “con code,” often referred to as the inmate code, is an informal set of guidelines that governs behaviour among prisoners. It dictates a culture where loyalty and silence are paramount, particularly regarding the reporting of violence or misconduct. This code has significant implications for safety, as inmates who breach it risk severe repercussions, including physical harm or death.
Prison advocates argue that this unwritten code shapes the daily reality for incarcerated individuals, creating an atmosphere of fear that stifles any hope of cooperation with authorities. Despite the Correctional Service of Canada acknowledging the issue, many inmates remain trapped in a paradox where reporting violence could lead to even greater danger.
Alarming Statistics and Notable Cases
Statistics indicate a stark rise in prison violence, with incidents of assault in federal institutions increasing by approximately 45% in recent years. The fiscal year 2021-22 recorded 2,265 assault-related incidents, a figure that surged to 3,279 by 2024-25. These incidents encompass both inmate-on-inmate violence and assaults on staff, highlighting a systemic problem that has garnered insufficient attention.
High-profile cases illustrate the deadly consequences of the con code. For instance, in August 2016, a fight broke out in a Surrey pretrial centre after one inmate was falsely branded a “rat.” The ensuing altercation led to the death of John Murphy, who succumbed to a chokehold administered by his cellmate. As noted by a B.C. provincial court judge, the incident exemplified how the prison culture coerced individuals into violent confrontations, representing a tragic outcome of the inmate code’s influence.
The Legal System’s Response
The complexities surrounding the con code have also permeated the judicial system. In December 2022, a contempt-of-court ruling was issued against Cody Haevischer, a convicted murderer who refused to testify about his gang affiliations due to fears for his safety. The B.C. Supreme Court dismissed his claims of duress, a decision that has faced criticism from reform advocates who argue that it fails to recognise the very real dangers posed by the inmate code.
Catherine Latimer, executive director of the John Howard Society of Canada, expressed concern over the court’s handling of such matters. She emphasised the necessity for the legal system to acknowledge the grave risks that accompany non-compliance with the inmate code. “If I had been [Haevischer], I would have opted for the contempt charge rather than loss of life,” she stated, underscoring the dire circumstances faced by those within the correctional system.
The Consequences of Silence
The chilling reality of prison life is starkly illustrated by the experiences of former inmates like Lawrence Da Silva, who served nearly two decades behind bars. He described the enduring impact of the inmate code, stating that adherence to these unwritten rules is vital for survival, both inside and outside prison walls. Da Silva noted that even after his release, the lessons ingrained during his incarceration linger, shaping his interactions and perceptions of authority.
Legal experts have pointed out that the inmate code creates a “code of silence” that complicates the reporting and prosecution of prison violence. Tom Engel, an Edmonton defence lawyer, highlighted the systemic issues at play, noting how political rhetoric often fails to address the realities of inmate safety, further exacerbating the cycle of violence.
Why it Matters
The increasing violence in Canadian prisons, fuelled by the pervasive influence of the con code, reveals deep flaws within the correctional system. As advocates call for more comprehensive recognition of the unique challenges faced by inmates, it becomes clear that without significant reform, the cycle of fear and violence will continue unabated. Addressing the core issues that drive inmate behaviour—such as mental health, addiction, and unresolved trauma—is crucial for fostering a safer and more humane prison environment. The need for a shift in both judicial perspective and correctional policy has never been more urgent.
