The Independent Investigation Unit (IIU) has concluded its investigation into Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) use of a “less lethal” firearm to subdue a female, resulting in minor injuries.

On March 22, 2022, WPS notified the IIU of an incident occurring that same day involving the discharge of a firearm. According to the notification, WPS received a call for service at 6:06 p.m. involving a female on a transit bus armed with a knife. The female fled the transit bus and entered a business on Main Street. Officers attempted to disarm her, but she refused to comply. Officers then deployed pepper spray, a Taser and a less lethal firearm to subdue and arrest her. The female was transported to Health Sciences Centre, where she was treated for minor injuries and released into custody.

As any injury resulting from the use of a less lethal firearm is considered a serious injury under IIU regulation 99/2015, the IIU was mandated to investigate.

Investigators were assigned and reviewed:

  • officers’ notes and narrative reports
  • call history
  • audio of 911 telephone calls
  • WPS radio transmissions
  • WPS use of force reports
  • forensic identification reports
  • medical report for the affect person
  • less lethal firearm and ammunition
  • WPS tactical support team training and recertification documents
  • surveillance video footage from the transit bus, pizza restaurant and neighbouring commercial premises
  • WPS policy on use of less lethal firearm

The WPS officer who discharged the less lethal firearm was designated as the subject officer, and six other WPS officers were designated as witness officers. The affected person declined to be interviewed, but did provide written consent for the release of her medical records. IIU investigators also interviewed one civilian witness.

The civilian director was not satisfied that reasonable grounds exist to charge the subject officer, and no charges will be authorized against him. Accordingly, the IIU has completed its investigation and the matter is now closed.

The affected person remains before the court on charges arising from the incident.