A Cambridge man has been convicted of manslaughter and trafficking in relation to the death of an inmate at Milton's Maplehurst Correctional Complex.
A judge found 33-year-old Michael Fournier guilty on both counts on June 30, with sentencing set for July 14.
Police say Fournier was a Maplehurst inmate at the time of the incident in 2019 and was trafficking opioids.
"The aforementioned conviction serves as a clear declaration that those who traffic in these illicit substances will be held responsible and prosecuted to the fullest extent possible," stated Halton Regional Police in a press release.
As the number of overdose deaths increases locally and beyond, police are reminding residents that these deaths can be prevented.
Everyone is encouraged to know the signs of an overdose and to call 911 immediately if you suspect someone is in distress.
Signs can include:
- difficulty walking, talking, or staying awake
- blue lips or nails
- very small pupils
- cold and clammy skin
- dizziness and confusion
- extreme drowsiness
- choking, gurgling or snoring sounds
- slow, weak, or no breathing
- inability to wake up, even when shouted at or shaken.
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects those who help someone overdosing, and the person who is experiencing the overdose, from charges for offences like simple possession if they call 911 in an emergency.
