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Investigation opens into Death in HRP cells
Early this morning Halifax Regional Police (HRP) found a 41-year-old Spryfield male unresponsive in their cells at 1:45 a.m. EHS was called and attended but efforts to resuscitate the male were unsuccessful. As a result of the death SiRT was contacted and responded to the scene this morning and have commenced an investigation.
Police had responded to the IWK hospital at shortly after 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday evening as a result of a call from the hospital about an unwanted male. They found the male outside of the hospital at the University Avenue entrance and arrested him under the provisions of the Liquor Control Act for being intoxicated in a public place. He was taken to HRP headquarters and lodged in cells around 11 p.m.
An autopsy to assist in determining cause of death will be conducted later today.
Anyone who may have witnessed anything in relation to the arrest of the male is asked to contact SiRT at 902-424-2010, or toll free 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.
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
