THUNDER BAY – Crimebeat – The Office of the Independent Police Review Director has conducted an investigation regarding allegations by a 44 year-old Thunder Bay man. The individual alleged Officers with the Thunder Bay Police Service assaulted him, and stole money from him, during the course of an arrest resulting from a drug investigation on September 7, 2011.
The male was not charged as a result of further investigation by the officers.
The assault and theft were not substantiated; however the OIPRD has directed the Chief of Police to order a hearing into the circumstances leading to the arrest. Three officers are each facing one count of Misconduct, by Unlawful Or Unnecessary Exercise Of Authority, and one count of Discreditable Conduct under the Police Services Act.
Detective William Wowchuck, Detective Constable Ron Popowich, and Detective Constable Brad Bernst will remain on active duty while awaiting a hearing over these allegations.
A date for the hearing is to be determined.
The Police Services Act is the legislation under which Police Services, Police Service Boards or commissions, and police officers in Ontario must follow.
http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/statutes/english/elaws_statutes_90p15_e.htm