No Charges Against RCMP Officer

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) has released its report in relation to an incident involving RCMP Officers.

On the afternoon of Wednesday, January 6, officers responded to a mental health call in Colchester County, where an individual was threatening self-harm.

When officers attempted to de-escalate the situation, an interaction occurred between the officers and the individual who sustained non-life-threatening injuries. EHS was called and the affected person was transported to hospital where they received medical attention. 

The officers attempted for quite some time to reason with the male, however, despite their best efforts to dissuade the individual from taking his own life, he would not deviate from his stated intention. When the affected party was momentarily distracted, an officer rushed toward the male and was able to move the rifle away from his head. As he did so, the male was able to fire the rifle, grazing his neck and collarbone.

The entire interaction was captured by a body camera worn by the subject officer.

Based on the video evidence and the statement from a civilian witness, the officer did what was necessary to prevent the man from taking his own life. Therefore, no charges are warranted against the officer.

The full report is available at http://sirt.novascotia.ca

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 Felix Cacchione.

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.

Media Contact:

Felix Cacchione

Director

902-718-9707