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Complaint of Deleted Cell Phone Video Investigated
The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) has commenced an investigation into a complaint from a member of the public that video on his cell phone was erased by a member of the Halifax Regional Police (HRP).
The matter was referred to SiRT on May 4, 2017 by HRP. They had received a complaint from the male alleging that he had taken video of his friend being arrested for public intoxication on the early morning hours of April 27, 2017, in downtown Halifax. The male was then arrested himself, also for public intoxication. He claims that when he was released from custody the next day the video was no longer on his phone.
After some initial investigation, it has been determined the matter meets SiRT’s mandate as a matter of significant public interest. As a result, SiRT has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the video, including whether it existed and whether any police officer tampered with it.
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
