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In recent months, a series of violent incidents within Canadian correctional facilities has drawn attention to the so-called “inmate code,” a set of unwritten rules governing prisoner behaviour that perpetuates violence and fear in jails. Advocates for prison reform are raising alarms about the implications of this code, which has been linked to a troubling rise in assaults behind bars.
The Grim Reality of the Inmate Code
At a pretrial centre in Surrey, British Columbia, an inmate tragically lost his life after being coerced into fighting his cellmate, who had been labelled a “rat” by other prisoners. This incident, alongside others involving notorious criminals, underscores the pervasive nature of the inmate code that dictates interactions among prisoners, often leading to violence. Prisoners, guards, and legal professionals are increasingly recognising the impact of this code, yet there seems to be a reluctance within the judicial system to address the issue seriously.
Statistics from the Correctional Service of Canada reveal a staggering 45 per cent increase in prison violence in recent years. In the fiscal year 2021-22, there were 2,265 assault-related incidents, a figure that surged to 3,279 by 2024-25. These incidents encompass both inmate-on-inmate assaults and attacks against prison staff, illuminating the chaotic environment that exists within many facilities.
Courtroom Consequences and the Culture of Silence
Catherine Latimer, executive director of the John Howard Society of Canada, highlights a troubling case wherein convicted murderer Cody Haevischer refused to testify at a court hearing due to fear of retribution from fellow inmates. He cited the inmate code, which discourages cooperation with authorities, as a significant factor in his decision. The B.C. Supreme Court deemed Haevischer in contempt for his refusal to answer questions, stating that the inmate code does not hold sway in legal proceedings. However, Latimer argues that this finding dismisses the very real threats prisoners face when they defy these unwritten rules.
Haevischer, convicted of multiple murders linked to the infamous “Surrey Six” case, expressed his genuine fear for his safety if he cooperated with the court. Latimer insists that the severity of the inmate code should not be underestimated, as those who breach it often face extreme repercussions.
Violent Outcomes and Systemic Failures
The murder of serial killer Robert Pickton in a Quebec prison has raised further questions about the management of inmates who are particularly vulnerable under the inmate code. Pickton was fatally attacked by another inmate while waiting for medication, an incident that has led to scrutiny of how correctional facilities protect high-profile prisoners. “How did he get access to Pickton? How did he get within range of assaulting him?” Latimer asks, pointing out that such individuals should typically be housed in protective environments.
The tragic case of John Murphy, who died in a fight instigated by the inmate code, serves as a stark reminder of how even minor offenders can become victims of this violent culture. Murphy and his cellmate were manipulated by dominant inmates into engaging in a fight, leading to Murphy’s death from a chokehold. This incident, along with others, highlights the dangerous power dynamics at play within prisons, where adherence to the inmate code can dictate life and death.
Perspectives from Those Affected
Former inmate Lawrence Da Silva, who spent 19 years in prison, spoke candidly about how the inmate code continues to influence his life even years after his release. He described the code as deeply ingrained, asserting that non-compliance could lead to severe violence, sometimes even murder. Da Silva’s reflections underscore the pervasive fear that prisoners face, often feeling compelled to adhere to the code for their own survival.
The issue is compounded by political rhetoric that can inadvertently legitimise the inmate code. Recent comments from Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, suggesting that certain offenders should not receive protection in prison, have drawn criticism for potentially encouraging violence. Legal experts argue that such statements only serve to reinforce a culture of fear and aggression within the prison system.
Why it Matters
The existence and implications of the inmate code reveal deep systemic flaws within Canada’s correctional system. As violence continues to escalate, the need for reform becomes increasingly urgent. Advocates like Latimer and Da Silva are calling for a recognition of the complex factors driving violence in prisons, including unresolved trauma and mental health issues. Without addressing these underlying causes, the cycle of violence is likely to persist, endangering both inmates and staff alike. The call for reform is not merely a matter of policy; it is a matter of human rights and safety within the penal system.
