Investigation Commences into Domestic Violence Allegation Against HRP Officer

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) has opened an investigation into allegations of domestic violence against a male Halifax Regional Police (HRP) officer.

HRP responded to a call from a third party on Monday, January 27, 2014, at approximately 5:40 a.m.  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.  As a result, and in accordance with the Police Act, HRP referred the matter to SiRT.  

SiRT commenced its investigation early afternoon, and subsequently arrested a male member of the HRP.  He was released on a Promise to Appear and Undertaking, requiring him to attend Provincial Court in Halifax on February 27, 2014.  He is also prohibited from contacting the woman.

SiRT’s investigation into the matter 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