Unlawful Segregation Used as a Construction Convenience
Howie, Sacks & Henry represents current and former prisoners at the Vanier Centre for Women (VCFW) in Milton, Ontario, who were subjected to unlawful segregation between February 5 and June 27, 2024. During an infrastructure project at the facility, prisoners in Units 2 and 12 were confined to their cells as an administrative convenience – not for any disciplinary or safety reason.
What VCFW Failed to Do
VCFW failed to follow the segregation review process required by R.R.O. 1990, Reg 778 under Ontario’s Ministry of Correctional Services Act. Required medical assessments were not conducted. Proper records were not kept. Prisoners were denied adequate time outside their cells, meaningful human contact, access to hygiene facilities, and in some cases, basic dietary and religious accommodations.
The Documented Harm of Prolonged Segregation
The psychological and physical effects of segregation are severe and well-documented. Anxiety, depression, paranoia, psychosis, and lasting difficulty with social interaction are among the known consequences. Ontario’s own Human Rights Commission and Ombudsman had repeatedly called on the Ministry to end the systemic overuse of segregation in provincial jails – as far back as 2016. The Crown was aware of the harm. It proceeded anyway.
Our Legal Claims Against the Ontario Government
This action, filed February 2, 2026 at the Brampton Superior Court of Justice (CV-26-00000806-00CP), pursues claims for negligence, breach of fiduciary duty, and violations of sections 7, 9, 12, and 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Who Qualifies for the VCFW Class Action
If you were incarcerated at the Vanier Centre for Women and held in Units 2 or 12 between February 5 and June 27, 2024, you will automatically be included in the class unless you choose to opt out.
The class has not yet been certified by the Court. Check back here for updates – once certified, you will automatically be included unless you follow the opt-out procedure established at that time.
If You Were Incarcerated at VCFW, Hope Starts Here
What happened at Vanier was wrong, and you deserve to have someone in your corner. At Howie, Sacks & Henry, Hope Starts Here, with a team that listens, takes your experience seriously, and works to get you the accountability you deserve. Your consultation is free, confidential, and comes with no obligation. Reach out today.
