Woman Suffers Broken Arm During Arrest by HRP

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrest of a 22- year old woman Thursday afternoon. 
 
Halifax Regional Police (HRP) received a call about a woman who may have been a danger to herself.  As a result, police responded and were able to locate the woman above the Armview Restaurant on Chebucto Road in Halifax at approximately 3:25 p.m.  They approached and were attempting to place her into custody under the provisions of the Involuntary Psychiatric Treatment Act. During that encounter the woman suffered a broken arm. She was taken to hospital by EHS where she currently remains under treatment.   As a result of the serious injury HRP referred the matter to SiRT less than an hour later.
 
SiRT commenced its investigation this evening and that investigation continues.  Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to call SiRT at 1-855-450-2010.
 
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