IIO Concludes Investigation into an Incident in Saanich (2020-240)
Case: 2020-240 Incident Date: September 30, 2020 Detachment: North Cowichan/Duncan Agency: RCMP Location: Saanich Incident Classification: Death Case Status: Closed - Without Public ReportINFORMATION BULLETIN
Independent Investigations Office
For Immediate Release
Surrey, B.C. – The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of BC has concluded an investigation into an incident in Saanich.
On September 28, 2020 at approximately 8:20 p.m., a man was arrested by North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP and transported to the local detachment. The following day, Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) evidence shows that the man complained that he was feeling unwell at approximately 3:10 p.m. and Emergency Health Services (EHS) was called to provide treatment. EHS arrived and spoke to him briefly; as they leave, EHS can be heard on the CCTV stating that the man had declined treatment. The video evidence confirms that no force was used against the man while he was in the custody of the RCMP, nor did he display any overt signs of illness or injury.
About 30 minutes after declining treatment, the man was taken to the Vancouver Island Regional Correction Centre (VIRCC) by BC Sheriffs.
On September 30, 2020 at approximately 6:00 a.m., the man was found deceased in his cell at VIRCC.
The IIO’s Chief Civilian Director has reviewed the evidence – including CCTV and medical information – and determined that the death of the man is not the result of the actions or inaction of any officer. The IIO investigation is therefore concluded. The BC Coroners Service investigation into the death continues.
Background
The IIO is the independent civilian oversight agency of the police in British Columbia. It investigates all officer-related incidents that result in serious harm or death, whether or not there is any allegation of wrongdoing.