A recent incident involving a failed wellness check by a British Columbia Mountie has raised concerns about potential criminal negligence. According to a report by the Independent Investigations Office (IIO), the Mountie in question likely crossed the threshold of criminal negligence in their handling of the situation.
The incident occurred on January 20, 2021, when the Mountie was dispatched to conduct a wellness check on a man who was reportedly in distress. The man’s family had requested the check, expressing concerns about his well-being. However, upon arriving at the man’s residence, the Mountie did not make contact with him and instead left a note on his door.
The IIO report states that the Mountie’s actions were not in line with the RCMP’s policies and procedures for conducting wellness checks. The report also notes that the Mountie did not follow up on the check, despite being aware of the man’s history of mental health issues and previous suicide attempts.
The IIO concluded that the Mountie’s actions likely crossed the threshold of criminal negligence, as defined by the Criminal Code of Canada. This means that the Mountie’s conduct showed a wanton or reckless disregard for the safety of the man, which could have resulted in harm or death.
The IIO’s findings have raised concerns about the training and protocols in place for conducting wellness checks. The BC Civil Liberties Association has called for a review of the RCMP’s policies and procedures, stating that the incident highlights the need for better training and support for officers responding to mental health calls.
The RCMP has stated that they are taking the IIO’s findings seriously and will be conducting an internal review of the incident. They have also expressed their commitment to working with mental health professionals and community partners to improve their response to mental health calls.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper training and protocols for law enforcement officers when responding to mental health calls. It also highlights the need for continued efforts to address the stigma surrounding mental health and to provide better support for those in crisis.
