The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has concluded its investigation into the circumstances surrounding an injury sustained by an adult male while in police custody in Long Plain First Nation.
On January 29, 2024, the Long Plain detachment of the Manitoba First Nations Police Service (MFNPS) notified the IIU of an incident that had occurred on January 24, 2024. According to the notification, at approximately 3:12pm, MFNPS officers responded to a call for service in Long Plain First Nation regarding a physical altercation. An adult male was taken to the Long Plain detachment. While in custody, the adult male was agitated and threatened to harm himself. As officers entered the cell, a struggle with the male began and a use-of-force encounter occurred. The male later complained of dizziness and was taken to Portage District General Hospital, where it was determined he had a suffered a facial fracture.
The civilian director determined it was in the public interest for the IIU to investigate. The IIU assumed responsibility for this investigation in accordance with Sec. 75 of the Police Services Act. Two subject officers were designated. Investigators interviewed one civilian witness and the affected person. Investigators also reviewed the male’s medical records along with video footage from the site.
Following due consideration of all the circumstances and evidence, the civilian director concluded the force used by the subject officers was reasonable. Accordingly, the matter is now closed.
As an affected person remains before the court on charges arising from the incident, the civilian director’s report on the incident will be made available once those charges are disposed.
The details of the investigation were first announced on January 31, 2024.
