The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has concluded its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrest of an adult male in January of 2024.
On January 27, 2024, the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) notified the IIU of an incident that occurred at 12:05 a.m. that same day. According to the notification, WPS members attended an address in the 200 block of Fairlane Avenue, regarding a disturbance and a male acting erratically. Upon arrival, officers found the male in the parking lot, where a brief use-of-force encounter occurred while he was being handcuffed. While officers were conveying the man to the police cruiser, he became unresponsive. The male was transported to Grace Hospital and later transferred to Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg. On January 28, 2024, WPS notified the IIU that the male had passed away.
As this matter concerned an in-custody death during an arrest, the IIU assumed responsibility for this investigation in accordance with Sec. 65(4) of the Police Services Act. IIU investigators were assigned to the investigation. The civilian director designated three subject officers and eight witness officers. Twelve civilian witnesses also provided statements.
Following due consideration of all the circumstances, the civilian director will not be authorizing charges. Therefore, no charges are recommended and the IIU investigation is now completed and closed.
The details of the investigation were first announced on January 29, 2024.
