The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has concluded its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of an adult male in Chemawawin Cree Nation while in RCMP custody.
On June 27, the RCMP notified the IIU of an incident that had occurred earlier that day. According to the notification, at approximately 2:27pm, RCMP officers from the Chemawawin detachment received a call for service about a male behaving erratically. Officers attended the scene on Albert Street and located the male, lying in the middle of the street in medical distress. He was taken into custody and transported to the local nursing station. Upon arrival, the male was unresponsive and life-saving efforts were made, but he was pronounced deceased.
As this matter concerned an in-custody death, the IIU assumed responsibility for this investigation in accordance with Sec. 65(4) of the Police Services Act. IIU investigators were assigned to this investigation. The civilian director declined to designate a subject officer but did designate two witness officers. Nine civilian witnesses also provided statements.
Following due consideration of all the circumstances, the civilian director will not authorize charges. Therefore, the IIU investigation is now completed and closed.
