CityNews has learned that an inmate being held in segregation at the Central East Correctional Centre in Lindsay has died.

Sources tell CityNews the circumstances surrounding the inmate’s death are being investigated by the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services and police.

In a statement, ministry spokesperson Andrew Morrisson confirmed the death occurred on Thursday.

“As the matter is under police investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time. Should the Coroner’s investigation determine that the death was anything other than natural causes, a mandatory inquest will be held,” Morrisson added.

The Ministry has been under fire for its segregation practices for years. The isolated cells are commonly used as a way to house patients with special needs and mental health problems, as well as a form of discipline for bad behavior.

In October, former Corrections Minister David Orazietti announced sweeping reforms to the system – including reducing the amount of time an inmate can spend in segregation for disciplinary reasons from 30 to 15 days. The province also appointed an external reviewer to examine the use of solitary confinement in Ontario’s jails.

On Wednesday, Superior Court Justice Paul Perel certified a $600-million class-action lawsuit against the federal government over its alleged mistreatment of inmates with mental health issues. The lawsuit alleges Corrections Canada fails to properly care for mentally ill inmates and relies too much on the “cruel and unusual punishment” of solitary confinement.

Orazietti resigned his cabinet post on Friday, and will retire from the legislature at the end of the year. Minister of Labour Kevin Flynn will be handling the Corrections portfolio in the interim.