Update on Investigation into HRP Cell Matter

Update on Investigation into HRP Cell Matter
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This is an update to SiRT’s Friday, September 6 release, regarding an investigation into an incident where a 53-year-old male was found unresponsive in Halifax Regional Police cells and was taken to hospital. 

On Sunday afternoon the male passed away at the QE II hospital.  An autopsy is being performed today.  SiRT’s investigation continues.

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September 6 Release:

The Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) has assumed an investigation into an incident where a man in Halifax Regional Police (HRP) custody was required to be taken to hospital.
 
Yesterday, at 12:42 p.m., Halifax Regional Police responded to a complaint of an intoxicated male near Sylvia Avenue in Halifax. They arrested  a 53-year-old man for public intoxication under the liquor control act. He was then taken to HRP cells where he was to be held until released when sober.

At approximately 6 p.m., the man was found to be breathing but unresponsive to officer’s attempts to wake him. EHS was contacted and transported the man to hospital. When the individual’s condition was deemed to be serious, HRP contacted SiRT at which point SiRT commenced its investigation. The man remains in hospital in serious condition.

SiRT 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 results of the investigation within three months after it is finished.

Media Contact:

Ron MacDonald, QC
Director
902-424-8400 (o)
902-718-9707 (m)
macdonrj@gov.ns.ca