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No fault found in RCMP Digby Traffic Stop
The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) today released its report regarding an investigation into a September 5, 2015 motorcycle crash in Digby following an attempted traffic stop by two members of the RCMP in Digby.
At approximately 4:30 a.m. on that date, the two RCMP officers, driving in the same car, responded to a call about an impaired motorcycle driver from security personnel working with the Wharf Rat Rally being held in Digby at that time. The officers located the motorcycle in downtown Digby, but when they turned on their emergency lights to pull the motorcycle over, the driver waved at them, and then sped off down a street. The RCMP did not pursue. The motorcycle travelled only 250 meters before leaving the road and crashing into a rock wall. The driver suffered fractures to his leg, wrist, arm, and cheek bone, as well as significant nerve damage in his shoulder.
Evidence from the officers was corroborated by the security personnel and video from one of their phones, as well as civilian witnesses. The facts showed the officers were clearly justified in their attempt to pull over the motorcycle, and the accident was caused solely by the motorcycle driver’s decision to speed off when he was required by law to stop. There are no grounds to consider any charges against the police officers.
A complete copy of the report is available at http://sirt.novascotia.ca.
SIRT is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia. Investigations are under the direction and control of independent civilian director Ron MacDonald, who is solely responsible for decisions respecting the laying of any charge.
Media Contact:
Ron MacDonald, QC
Director
902-424-8400 (o)
902-718-9707 (m)
