IIO Concludes Investigation into Incident in Surrey (2021-307)
Case: 2021-307 Incident Date: November 7, 2021 Agency: RCMP Location: Surrey Detachment: Surrey Incident Classification: Serious Harm 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 Surrey.
As indicated in the previous release, on November 5, 2021 at approximately 10:45 p.m., members of the Surrey RCMP arrested a woman on an outstanding warrant. The woman was transported by police to a local hospital where she was assessed and determined to be fit for cells. Officers then took the woman to the Surrey RCMP detachment.
On November 7 at about 1:25 a.m. while still in custody, the woman was noted to fall off the bed and go into medical distress. Video evidence confirms that an officer entered the cell to check on the woman in less than one minute, and a nurse arrived shortly thereafter. Medical assistance was provided until Emergency Health Services arrived and transported the woman to the hospital.
The Chief Civilian Director has reviewed the evidence, including cell block video, medical information, and a statement from the affected person, and determined that the actions of police did not contribute to the woman’s condition. In fact, it is likely that the immediate medical attention available while she was in custody saved the woman’s life. The IIO investigation is now concluded.
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.