The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of British Columbia has cleared the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) of any wrongdoing in a recent incident where a man’s arm was broken during a traffic stop.
According to the IIO’s report, the incident occurred on October 16, 2020, when an RCMP officer pulled over a vehicle for a traffic violation in Surrey, BC. The driver, a 35-year-old man, was asked to step out of the vehicle and was subsequently arrested for obstruction of justice.
During the arrest, the man’s arm was broken. He was taken to the hospital for treatment and later filed a complaint with the IIO, alleging that the RCMP officers used excessive force.
After conducting a thorough investigation, the IIO has determined that the officers’ use of force was justified and necessary in the circumstances. The report states that the man was resisting arrest and the officers had to use force to gain control and safely take him into custody.
The IIO also noted that the officers followed proper protocol and provided the man with medical attention immediately after the incident. The report further states that the officers’ actions were in accordance with their training and did not constitute any misconduct.
The IIO’s findings have been reviewed by the Crown Counsel, who has determined that there is no basis for criminal charges against the officers involved.
The IIO is an independent civilian oversight agency that investigates all officer-related incidents that result in serious harm or death. Their role is to ensure transparency and accountability in cases involving police conduct.
The RCMP has stated that they fully cooperated with the IIO’s investigation and will continue to do so in the future. They also expressed their appreciation for the thoroughness and professionalism of the IIO’s investigation.
This incident serves as a reminder of the difficult and often dangerous situations that police officers face on a daily basis. The IIO’s report has cleared the RCMP of any wrongdoing in this case, and the officers involved can continue to serve and protect their community with confidence.
