Pikangikum, ON – The Director of the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), Joseph Martino, has confirmed the termination of an investigation into a serious injury sustained by a 23-year-old man in Pikangikum last June.
Incident Details
On June 10, 2023, the man was in the custody of the Ontario Provincial Police in Pikangikum. He attended a bail hearing and was subsequently remanded into custody. Following the hearing, while being escorted back to his cell, the man attempted to escape through a pedestrian door in the police garage. He ran towards the door, but it did not open, causing him to collide with it and break his right wrist. The man was immediately taken to the hospital, where his injury was diagnosed and treated.
Investigation Conclusion
Based on the SIU’s preliminary inquiries, which included a review of video footage capturing the incident, Director Martino concluded that the investigation should be discontinued. It was determined that the police officers involved did not contribute to the man’s injury in any way that could attract criminal sanctions. There was no evidence of any act or omission by the officers that warranted criminal charges. Consequently, the SIU has closed the file on this incident.
About the SIU
The Special Investigations Unit is an independent government agency responsible for investigating incidents involving officials, including police officers, special constables with the Niagara Parks Commission, and peace officers with the Legislative Protective Service. The SIU investigates incidents that may have resulted in death, serious injury, sexual assault, or the discharge of a firearm at a person. All investigations are conducted by SIU investigators, who are civilians.
Under the Special Investigations Unit Act, the Director of the SIU must thoroughly consider whether the official involved has committed a criminal offense in connection with the incident under investigation. Depending on the evidence, the Director may choose to lay criminal charges or close the file if no grounds for charges exist. The SIU is committed to publicly reporting the results of its investigations, ensuring transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices.
