Jurisdiction Not Sustained in Cranbrook Case

INFORMATION BULLETIN
Independent Investigations Office
For Immediate Release
October 8, 2013

SURREY – The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) has ended the investigation into an incident involving an adult male and the Cranbrook RCMP. After conducting a preliminary investigation, the Chief Civilian Director has determined that the affected person’s injuries did not meet the definition of serious harm and as such, jurisdiction will not be sustained.

On August 30, 2013, Cranbrook RCMP were attempting to locate an adult male (the affected person) to take him into custody. The affected person was located, chased on foot, and subsequently caught. While taking the affected person into custody, a physical altercation occurred during which the affected person received several punches to the head.

BC Ambulance Services attended the scene and examined the affected person however no injuries were noted at that time. The affected person was taken to the detachment and was lodged in cells. While there, the affected person complained of pain and was observed to have a swollen eye. He was transported to hospital and was diagnosed with a fractured orbital bone.

The IIO deployed investigators who conducted preliminary tasks including interviews and a review of video. In addition, investigators reviewed medical records including a report made by a facial specialist. It was confirmed that the injury to the affected person would heal itself and no surgery or medical attention was required. As such, the injury could not be interpreted as “substantial” in that there was no permanent or prolonged impairment having a significant or considerable impact on the daily activities of living.

In order for the IIO to sustain jurisdiction over a matter, there must be a relationship between an officer’s actions and an injury that meets the definition of serious harm, as defined by the Police Act. In this instance, jurisdiction will not be sustained.

During the course of the investigation however, the affected person made allegations related to excessive use of force. Based on this allegation, the IIO file will be forwarded to the RCMP Professional Standards Unit as well as the Commission of Public Complaints Against the RCMP (CPC) for their review and consideration.

Contact:
owen.court@iiobc.ca