The provincial Department of Justice and Public Safety has launched an internal review into financial and administrative processes at Her Majesty’s Penitentiary in St. John's after identifying what it described as "financial and administrative irregularities." The head of the province's corrections system is not currently in the role as the review proceeds, the department confirmed.
Immediate changes in leadership
Dan Chafe, who had served as the province's Superintendent of Prisons since 2020, is no longer in the position while the matter is examined. The department declined to provide further comment on his current employment status, citing human resources considerations.
In the interim, Susan Green, the former provincial manager of institutional programs, was named acting superintendent on Aug. 12. The department said it had "taken immediate action" upon discovering the irregularities.
"The Department of Justice and Public Safety identified financial and administrative irregularities at Her Majesty's Penitentiary. The department takes any incidents like this very seriously, which is why it took immediate action."
Oversight bodies notified
The department has engaged the Office of the Comptroller General to assist with the review and has also notified the Office of the Auditor General. A representative of the auditor general's office confirmed the department notified them on Monday of potential fraud; it has not yet been determined whether the auditor general will undertake a formal investigation.
- Internal review launched into financial and administrative processes at the penitentiary
- Office of the Comptroller General engaged to assist the review
- Office of the Auditor General notified about possible fraud; formal probe undecided
Background on leadership
Chafe had been superintendent since 2020. Prior to that appointment, he served as high sheriff for five years. The department did not provide further detail when asked whether Chafe would comment; attempts to reach him via his government email did not receive an immediate response.
| Position | Person | Relevant date |
|---|---|---|
| Superintendent of Prisons | Dan Chafe | Since 2020 (no longer in role) |
| Acting Superintendent | Susan Green | Appointed Aug. 12 |
This development follows the department's statement that any such incidents are treated seriously and that it expects to receive and review findings from the Comptroller General's work when available. The notification to the auditor general signals the province is involving independent oversight while internal processes proceed.
For residents and stakeholders in St. John's and across the province, the review raises questions about financial controls and administrative practices at the largest correctional facility in Newfoundland and Labrador. Provincial officials have so far limited public comment to confirmation of the review and the names of those filling leadership roles during the investigation.
Further updates are expected once the Comptroller General's review is completed and the Office of the Auditor General determines whether a separate investigation is warranted.
