Domestic Assault Allegation Made Against RCMP-Bridgewater Member

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) has commenced an investigation into an allegation of domestic assault against a male member of the Bridgewater Detachment of the RCMP who has six years of service.

On the evening of Tuesday, April 15, Bridgewater RCMP received a complaint from a female regarding an allegation of assault against the RCMP member, who is her husband. At approximately 8 p.m., in accordance with the provisions of the Police Act, the RCMP contacted SiRT.  At that point SiRT commenced an investigation and two investigators responded last evening.  The RCMP member was arrested and has been released on conditions in an undertaking given to an arresting officer.  He is due to appear in Provincial Court in Bridgewater on May 7, 2014.  No charges have been laid and the investigation continues. 

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