IIO Team Deployed to VPD Officer-Involved Fatality

INFORMATION BULLETIN
Independent Investigations Office
For Immediate Release
Nov.13, 2012

SURREY – The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) confirms that a team of investigators has been deployed to an officer-involved incident in Vancouver.

At approximately 10:30 hours on Nov. 13, 2012, the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) responded to a call from Emergency Health Services. The complaint involved an adult male who was threatening to harm himself with a knife. During the exchange with police, the male continued to be agitated, and a conducted energy weapon was deployed. The male sustained self-inflicted injuries, was taken into custody and transported to hospital. The man did not survive his injuries.

The IIO was notified at 11:09 hours. Two teams of investigators have been deployed. Upon their arrival, they will meet with the designated VPD liaison officer and conduct preliminary investigative activities. Information related to the deceased remains under the jurisdiction of the BC Coroners Service.

The IIO and the VPD will work within the terms agreed upon in the Memorandum of Understanding that was signed by the Chief Civilian Director and B.C.’s police services in July, 2012. Once the IIO investigation is complete, the Chief Civilian Director will determine if he believes an offence may have taken place. If he does, he will refer the case to Crown counsel. If there is no report made to Crown counsel, the Chief Civilian Director will release a public report with his findings.

As set by the Chief Civilian Director, the IIO’s goals are to conduct fair, unbiased, timely, thorough and competent investigations and ensure transparency through public reporting.

Learn More:
Independent Investigations Office website: http://www.iiobc.ca/

Contact:
Owen Court
Independent Investigations Office of BC
778 988-1041