MEDIA ADVISORY
August 16
Trial over charter rights violations at OCDC continues September 17
Ottawa, ON - The suit filed last year by Deepan Budlakoti, who is detained at the Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre (OCDC), started May 31 and has been ongoing - resumes on September 17. Mr. Budlakoti is suing the government of Ontario for violations under sections 2A, 7, 8, and 12 of the charter.
Who :
Deepan Budlakoti is an Ottawa born stateless man detained at the OCDC that is awaiting sentencing for criminal charges dating back to november 2017.
What : Defense witnesses that will be questioned this Friday surrounding the topic of strip searches include :
- Diana Ralf (morning)
- Jessica Hutchinson

The issues Mr. Budlakoti will bring to light during this trial include segregation, solitary confinement, excessive force, dynamic entry, privacy relating to and access to medical services, food issues at the courthouse and in jail, strip searches and mental health. Over the first few days prison staff and expert witnesses will be questioned.
When : September 17, starting from 10 am to 4:30 pm. (approximate time, varies depending on circumstances)
Where : Physical attendance is possible at the Ottawa Courthouse (161 Elgin St. - ask which room). Virtual attendance is also possible. Zoom link for attendance - https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/62435548857
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For more information you can contact : Leonardo Russmano, leo@rclpc.ca or admin@rclpc.ca, 613-296-2551
For broader comments on jail conditions at OCDC contact : Justin Piché, Associate professor of criminology, University of Ottawa - justin.piche@uottawa.ca, 613-793-1093