Établissement de détention de Rivière-des-Prairies – Montreal, QC

Institution Overview

The Établissement de détention de Rivière-des-Prairies (EDRDP), inaugurated in 1996, serves as a primary provincial correctional facility within the Montreal region. Replacing the former Parthenais Detention Centre, this facility is designed to house adult male offenders. It primarily accommodates individuals awaiting trial (remand) and those serving sentences of less than two years minus one day, falling under provincial jurisdiction. The institution plays a critical role in the Quebec judicial system by ensuring the secure custody of detainees while facilitating their eventual reintegration into society through various social and professional programs.

Services and Operational Procedures

• Inmate Housing and Supervision: The facility is divided into multiple sectors to manage different security requirements and inmate populations, including protective custody units. It operates 24/7 with strict surveillance to maintain order and safety.
• Visitation Rights: Visits are strictly controlled and must be scheduled in advance. Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved list, a process that takes 1-3 business days. The facility enforces a rigorous dress code and security screening for all visitors.
• Health and Social Services: Detainees have access to basic healthcare, psychological support, and social workers to assist with legal and personal matters during their incarceration.
• Financial Accounts: Families can deposit funds into an inmate’s account for canteen purchases (hygiene products, snacks). This can be done via money order or cash at the visitor desk during specific hours (no change provided).

Legal and Historical Context

Built to address overcrowding in older Montreal prisons, the Rivière-des-Prairies facility represents a modern approach to incarceration in Quebec, focusing on security features that allow for better management of diverse offender profiles. As a provincial institution, it operates under the authority of the Ministère de la Sécurité publique. It is distinct from federal penitentiaries, handling cases that are currently before the courts or short-term sentences. The facility is a high-security zone, and unauthorized presence on the grounds is strictly prohibited.