Jails rife with rort potential

A DAMNING report into Queensland jails has found significant risk of corruption within the prison system.

The Crime and Corruption Commission investigation, released today, recommends broadscale changes to a system that “is not effectively preventing, detecting or dealing” with graft.

The CCC’s Taskforce Flaxton found failing to report corruption, excessive force, inappropriate relationships involving prison staff, misuse of authority and smuggled contraband were “particularly evident” in Queensland jails.

Overcrowding and secrecy were also creating corruption risks.

The CCC found a culture of fear and reprisal within the state’s 14 prisons led to corruption allegations been significantly swept under the carpet.

In recent years the level of contraband found smuggled into prisons has officially increased 116 per cent. But the real figure is likely to be higher.

The taskforce was told of prison staff who encourage prisoners to bash other inmates, alter official reports, deny medical help to prisoners and fail to record assaults.

It was instigated in March after the CCC received reports of corrupt conduct involving prison staff.