Convicted Rapist Sues Federal Government for Paralyzing Prison Attack in New Brunswick

In a harrowing twist of fate, Sofyan Boalag, a man who terrorized women in St. John’s in 2012, has filed a lawsuit against the federal government. Boalag alleges that he is now paralyzed after being attacked in prison. The lawsuit was filed in Federal Court on January 20, 2024.

The Attack and Its Aftermath

According to Boalag’s statement of claim, the incident occurred on February 3, 2023, at the Atlantic Institution in Renous, New Brunswick. Inmates were being released from their cells to line up for medication when the prison staff opened the doors to a corridor simultaneously. During this chaotic scene, Boalag claims he was attacked from behind and stabbed multiple times.

“The plaintiff says that his injuries were catastrophic in nature, rendering him unable to walk for the rest of his life,” his lawsuit states.

Boalag’s Criminal History

Boalag’s violent crimes shook St. John’s in the summer and fall of 2012. He was convicted of raping two women and a 15-year-old girl. His actions led to widespread fear in the downtown core. Boalag was eventually arrested in December 2012, following a police warning.

Boalag’s appeal against his indeterminate sentence as a dangerous offender was rejected by the Supreme Court of Canada in 2021.

The Legal Claim

Halifax lawyer Laura Neilan filed the lawsuit on Boalag’s behalf. The lawsuit claims that prison staff ignored protocol and failed on multiple levels, contributing to Boalag’s injuries. He alleges that the attacker, who reportedly had previous violent tendencies toward him, was not properly monitored or prevented from entering the lineup area.

The lawsuit also criticizes the prison for failing to ensure appropriate staffing levels, properly classify and house dangerous inmates, and prevent weapons from entering the facility.

Prison Response

A spokesperson for Correctional Service Canada (CSC) acknowledged the case but stated that the agency cannot comment further until the court proceedings conclude.

“CSC employees are trained and are expected to carry out their duties with professionalism, in full compliance with our policies, procedures – and of course, the law,” the spokesperson wrote. “CSC does not tolerate any breach of these standards, and all allegations are thoroughly investigated, regardless of the source.”

Current Status

The federal government has not yet filed a statement of defense. Boalag, still classified as a dangerous offender, is currently housed in a correctional facility in Ontario.

Impact and Implications

This case highlights the crucial need for stringent security measures and proper supervision in correctional facilities. It underscores the importance of following internal protocols and addressing the specific needs of inmates, a responsibility that extends to ensuring their safety.

As Boalag’s lawsuit moves forward, it will undoubtedly draw attention to the broader issues surrounding prison safety and inmate management.

“It’s a vulnerable time for most inmates, and any lapse in security can have devastating consequences,” says Neilan, Boalag’s lawyer.

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