The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has concluded its investigation into the death of an adult male during a police-involved incident in Winnipeg.
On Sept. 2, 2023, the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) notified the IIU of an incident that had occurred earlier that day. According to the notification, at approximately 11:55am, WPS officers responded to a call for service at the intersection of Main Street and Alexander Avenue regarding a male walking in traffic and behaving erratically. The male appeared to be under the influence of drugs and admitted to officers that he had been using cocaine and methamphetamine. As the male continued exhibiting agitated behaviour that could harm himself and others, officers placed him in handcuffs. Emergency medical services were called and a paramedic supervisor administered chemical sedation. The male was taken to Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg where his condition deteriorated; he was in a medically induced coma until his death.
The IIU assumed responsibility for this investigation in accordance with Sec 65(4) of the Police Services Act. As the matter involved a fatality, a request for a civilian monitor was made to the Manitoba Police Commission. No subject officers were designated; four witness officers were designated. Investigators also obtained statements from four professional witnesses and two civilian witnesses.
Following due consideration of all the circumstances and evidence, the civilian director concluded the actions of all officers were reasonable. Therefore, no charges are recommended against the witness officers. The IIU investigation is completed, and the matter is now closed.
The details of the investigation were first announced on Sept. 5, 2023.
