REPORT RAPPORT

DATE:	20 September 2011
TO/DEST:	Executive Director, Ottawa Police Services Board
FROM/EXP:	Chief of Police, Ottawa Police Service
SUBJECT/OBJET:	REPORT ON S.I.U. INVESTIGATION – INJURY DURING ARREST – 26 MAY 2011

RECOMMENDATION

That the Ottawa Police Services Board receive this report for information.

BACKGROUND

In May 2011, the Ottawa Police Service responded to a disturbance “in progress” call for the removal of an intoxicated individual.  The individual was arrested but became very aggressive towards officers, damaging three police cruisers and attempting to remove the handcuffs.  While being restrained the individual attempted to bite and kick officers.  The individual continued to be assaultive towards officers as they attempted to restrain the individual’s head and feet.

Once secured, the individual was transported to the hospital where the individual was diagnosed with a broken nose.

The Special Investigations Unit was contacted and invoked their mandate.

INVESTIGATION

Special Investigations Unit Investigation

On July 8, 2011, the Director of the Special Investigations Unit advised Chief White that their investigation was now complete and that no further action would be taken.  S.I.U. Director Ian Scott stated in his correspondence:

“The investigation by this Unit has been completed, the file has been closed and no further action is contemplated.  In my view, there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the named subject officer committed a criminal offence in relation to the injury sustained by the complainant during his arrest on May 26, 2011.

“In my review, given the degree of aggression displayed by Mr. Simpson, including the likelihood that he attempted to bite the subject officer’s hand, the force used by the subject officer was not excessive.”

Professional Standards Section Investigation

Pursuant to section 11 of Regulation 673/98 of the Police Services Act, an investigation was conducted by the Professional Standards Section to determine if the policies of, or services provided by, the Ottawa Police Service were adhered to at the time of this incident, and to determine if the conduct of the police officers was appropriate.

The results are as follows:

Conduct: No misconduct was identified.

Policies: All policies were adhered to.

Service: No service issues were identified.

CONCLUSION

No further action to be taken on this matter.

(Original signed by)

Vern White

Chief of Police