Glenn Thibeault

By Nick Liard

The province will spend $9.5 million to install full-body scanners at Ontario jails as a way to better detect contraband.

The announcement was made Tuesday after a six month pilot project concluded at the Toronto South Detention Centre which showed a reduction in contraband and fewer incidents with weapons.

Sudbury M-P-P Glenn Thibeault says during his recent tour of the Sudbury jail this was one of the major concerns correctional officers had.

He says it highlights the focus put on safety of inmates and correctional officers.

The announcement comes after inmates smuggled matches or a lighter into the Sudbury Jail and started three fires last Saturday.