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Sexual Assault Investigation Announced

Aug
15

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) today announced its investigation of a member of the Bridgewater Police Service (BPS) for sexual assault and obstruction of justice.

On August 4, 2016, SiRT received information from another police agency about the alleged actions of the BPS police officer in relation to a teenaged female. After undertaking some initial investigative steps, SiRT is now able to publically confirm the investigation, which is also examining possible issues in relation to evidence relevant to the matter.

The Serious Incident Response Team is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia, which are defined to include any allegation of sexual assault. Investigations are under the direction and control of independent civilian director Ron MacDonald.

The team can independently begin an investigation after a referral from a chief of police, the head of the RCMP in Nova Scotia or the Minister of Justice. It can also investigate after a complaint from the public.

The Police Act requires the director to file a public report summarizing the result of the investigation within three months after it is finished.

Media Contact:

Ron MacDonald, QC

Director

902-718-9707

ronald.j.macdonald@novascotia.ca