The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has concluded its investigation into an incident that occurred while Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) officers were transporting an adult male from hospital.
On February 27, 2023, the WPS notified the IIU of an incident that had occurred earlier that day. According to the notification, WPS officers responded to a call for service from Victoria Hospital to transport an adult male, who had been medically cleared after receiving treatment for intoxication. While transporting the male, the officers noticed his condition had deteriorated and proceeded to transport him to Main Street Project. Upon arrival at Main Street Project, the man was unconscious but breathing. Officers called for emergency medical services (EMS) and the male was transported by ambulance to Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg, where he was admitted to the medical intensive care unit.
The IIU assumed responsibility for the investigation in accordance with Sec. 65(1) of the Police Services Act.
Investigators obtained statements from four witness officers and two professional witnesses. They reviewed male’s medical records as well as surveillance footage from Victoria Hospital and Main Street Project.
In considering all the circumstances, the civilian director concluded the injuries suffered by the male did not result from the actions or inactions of the police officers involved in the incident. Therefore, the IIU investigation is completed and the matter is now closed.
The details of the investigation were first announced on Feb. 28, 2023.
