Injury Suffered by Arrested Male at Enfield RCMP Leads to Investigation

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) is investigating the circumstances surrounding injuries suffered by a 45-year-old male early on Friday, July 4, at the Enfield Detachment of the RCMP.

Members of the Enfield RCMP arrested the male after midnight for being intoxicated in a public  place and took him to the Enfield Detachment to be lodged in cells under the provisions of the Liquor Control Act.  While still in the booking area of the Detachment an altercation occurred between the man and the RCMP members, during which the male suffered injuries. EHS responded to a call from the police.  After they examined the male he remained in the RCMP cells for the night.  The next morning he continued to complain of pain and was taken to hospital. There it was determined that in addition to a laceration on his chin he had a broken rib. 

As a result of those injuries the RCMP contacted SiRT on Monday morning, at which time SiRT assumed responsibility for investigating the matter.  

This marks the fourth investigation opened by SiRT since July 2.

The Serious Incident Response Team is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia, whether or not there is an allegation of wrongdoing. 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
macdonrj@gov.ns.ca