The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has concluded its investigation into the in-custody death of an adult male following an arrest by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Selkirk.
On October 24, 2022, RCMP notified the IIU of an incident that had occurred around 7pm that day. According to the notification, at approximately 3:15am on October 23, 2022, a male was taken into custody under the Intoxicated Persons Detention Act, transported to the Selkirk detachment and lodged in cells. The male was alleged to have been involved in a vehicle collision. Police checks revealed that the male was wanted on a Canada-wide warrant for a parole violation. The male was arrested on the strength of the warrant. Later while in custody, he was found to be in possession of approximately 90 grams of a white powder substance and was further arrested for possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking.
On October 24, 2022, at approximately 7pm, the affected person was found unresponsive in his cell. He was transported to Selkirk Regional Health Centre by EMS and declared deceased.
The IIU assumed responsibility for this investigation in accordance with Sec. 65(4) of the Police Services Act. Twelve witness officers were designated. Investigators also interviewed three civilian witnesses.
In considering all the circumstances, the civilian director concluded that the actions of the officers who dealt with the male during his detention were reasonable, and no charges are recommended against the witness officers. Therefore, the IIU investigation is completed, and the matter is now closed.
The details of the investigation were first announced on October 26, 2022.
