Chief Civilian Director Makes Report to Crown Counsel

INFORMATION BULLETIN
Independent Investigations Office
For Immediate Release

SURREY – Chief Civilian Director Richard Rosenthal of the Independent Investigations Office (IIO) has made a report to Crown Counsel with respect to an incident that took place in Maple Ridge involving members of the Ridge Meadows RCMP. IIO file 14-029.

On February 13, 2014, an on duty officer was conducting a traffic stop in a parking lot near 20644 Dewdney Trunk Road. The officer was in the process of issuing a roadside suspension when the driver (affected person) fled the scene.

Two other officers assisted in the location and apprehension of the affected person about 250 metres from the traffic stop. The affected person was taken into custody and lodged in police cells. He subsequently complained about an injury to his right arm. He was taken to hospital and received treatment.

The completed IIO investigation was forwarded to the Chief Civilian Director. In examining the evidence, he determined that an officer may have committed an offence and as such, has sent the file to Crown Counsel.

The Chief Civilian Director does not make a recommendation on whether charges should be approved or what charges Crown Counsel should consider. Under the Crown Counsel Act, the Criminal Justice Branch has jurisdiction over the charge assessment and charge approval process.

In approving charges, the Criminal Justice Branch must be satisfied not only that an offence may have been committed, but that the commission of an offence can be proven in court beyond a reasonable doubt. Criminal Justice Branch policy provides that in making this assessment Crown Counsel will apply a two-part test:

  •  There must be a substantial likelihood of conviction based on the evidence gathered by the investigating agency.
  •  A prosecution must be required in the public interest.

Under these circumstances, no public report will be issued by the IIO and no further information will be provided.

Learn More: www.iiobc.ca
Contact: kellie.kilpatrick@iiobc.ca
IIO Media Phone – 778-988-1041

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