On January 30, 2026, my husband, Eli LaRue, was targeted at Mountain Institution based on alleged “intelligence” that was never substantiated and appears to be rooted in hearsay and misinterpretation of legally intercepted communications, including privileged legal calls.
During this time:
Family and community members who attempted to attend and support were turned away.
Eli requested procedural fairness safeguards that were denied.
Least restrictive measures were not considered.
He requested a urinalysis test after an ion scanner alert falsely suggested heroin contamination a substance not known to be circulating within the institution and this request was denied.
He was subjected to an emergency transfer to Kent Institution (maximum security).
This transfer occurred despite significant inconsistencies in the allegations and despite the availability of less restrictive alternatives, contrary to law and policy.
Concerning Conduct
1. Procedural Unfairness
Under:
Section 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (life, liberty, security of the person),
Section 12 (protection against cruel and unusual treatment),
Section 2(d) (freedom of association),
and the principles of procedural fairness in administrative law,
Eli was entitled to meaningful opportunity to respond, proportional decision-making, and decisions made on credible evidence.
The extension of time for review was denied by an SIO rather than the institutional head, raising further concerns about proper authority and decision-making procedures.
Emergency transfers are intended for genuine security risks, not for ambiguous, uncorroborated interpretations of phrases such as “meet you at our time,” a phrase we have used for ten years to describe scheduled emotional connection as husband and wife.
2. Retaliation for Legal Advocacy
Eli has engaged in lawful legal processes and advocacy. The timing of this escalation raises serious concerns of retaliation, which is prohibited under CSC policy and Canadian law.
The proposed national class action regarding unlawful call interception adds additional gravity to the issue of intercepted communications being used improperly.
3. Destruction and Desecration of Property
During an invasive search after he was removed from the unit:
His television was destroyed.
His sacred spiritual bundle was desecrated.
Intimate family photographs were handled inappropriately.
Personal items went missing.
Witnesses have reported observing this conduct after he was removed.
For Indigenous prisoners especially, spiritual items are not property — they are protected under Commissioner’s Directive 702 (Aboriginal Offenders) and tied directly to cultural and spiritual rights protected under Section 35 of the Constitution and Section 2(a) of the Charter (freedom of religion).
4. Gladue Principles and Family Connection
Canada recognizes the over-representation of Indigenous peoples in custody.
Under:
Gladue principles
Commissioner’s Directive 710-8 (Transfer of Inmates)
CD 764 (Institutional Security)
and CSC’s stated commitment to maintaining family ties
Decisions must consider:
Cultural continuity
Community connection
The impact on children and family
Our family — including our 7-year-old child — has now been separated further under maximum conditions without demonstrable justification.
Family connection is a cornerstone of rehabilitation and public safety. Removing it without necessity undermines both.
5. Escalation and Community Safety Concerns
Since this transfer, I have been warned by individuals connected to the institutions to “watch out” for myself and our children.
The psychological impact of these events has been severe.
Correctional decisions do not exist in isolation — they ripple into families and communities.
Why This Matters
This is not just about one man.
This is about:
Procedural fairness.
The lawful limits of correctional authority.
The protection of Indigenous spiritual rights.
The integrity of privileged communications.
The protection of families from institutional overreach.
When correctional discretion becomes unchecked, constitutional rights erode quietly.
We ask for transparency, accountability, and the application of the law as written.
[photo is of the items used in our TikTok live drumming and singing event that happened the evening of February 11, 2026 between 8 - 9:30pm PST - thank you to the nearly 200 who showed up virtually to support us]