Charges Laid Against HRP Officer

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) today laid a charge of assault against Cst. Jason Marriott, 35, an eight-year member of the Halifax Regional Police (HRP). The assault is alleged to be against a woman with whom he had a domestic relationship.

The charge arises from an incident on Monday, Jan. 27, 2014, at approximately 5:40 a.m., when HRP responded to a call from a third party.  Upon arrival at a downtown Halifax apartment building, they encountered a man and woman in the lobby.  The man was an off-duty HRP officer.  Investigation by HRP continued during the morning, and in accordance with the Police Act, was later referred to SiRT.  

SiRT subsequently arrested Cst. Marriott later in the day.  He was released on a Promise to Appear and Undertaking, requiring him to attend Provincial Court in Halifax on Feb. 27, 2014.  He is also prohibited from contacting the woman.

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