The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has concluded its investigation into an allegation of injuries sustained by an adult male during an arrest by Brandon Police Service (BPS) officers.
On Feb. 24, 2023, BPS notified the IIU of an incident that had occurred on Oct. 15, 2022. According to the notification, at approximately 5 a.m. on Oct. 15, 2022, BPS officers responded to a call for service to a domestic incident on 5th Street in Brandon. The complainant called 911 to report that a male had broken into her house and threatened her with a knife. Officers attended the scene, but the male had already fled the area. The K9 unit tracked the male to a nearby parking lot, where officers found him hiding behind a shed. The male resisted arrest and a use-of-force encounter ensued. The male was transported to the Brandon Regional Health Centre, where he was medically cleared.
On Nov. 17, 2022, the male made a complaint to the Law Enforcement Review Agency alleging he had been assaulted during his arrest. On Feb. 21, 2023, the male contacted BPS indicating he wanted to make a complaint to the IIU. The complaint was obtained the next day and reviewed. The civilian director determined it was in the public interest for an independent investigation to be conducted pursuant to Sec. 75 of the Police Services Act.
Two subject officers and three witness officers were designated. Investigators interviewed the affected male as well as a police officer who provided transportation to the male but was not designated as a witness officer. Investigators also reviewed the affected male’s medical records, 911 recordings and video footage.
In considering all the circumstances, the civilian director concluded that the use of force used by the officers was necessary and reasonable to effect the male’ arrest. The IIU investigation is completed and the matter is now closed. As an affected person remains before the court on charges arising from the incident, the civilian director’s report on the incident will be made available once those charges are disposed.
The details of the investigation were first announced on Feb. 27, 2023
