SiRT Begins Investigation into Sexual Assault Allegation

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) is investigating an allegation of sexual assault made against a male member of the Halifax Regional Police.

On June 30, an adult female alleged she was sexually assaulted by the male officer who had arrested her earlier that evening. It is alleged the assault took place in the vehicle while being transported to HRP cells.

As a result of the incident, SiRT was contacted by HRP and has assumed responsibility for the investigation. The Police Act gives SiRT sole jurisdiction over the investigation of sexual assault allegations made against a police officer. All SiRT 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.

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:

Felix Cacchione

Director

902-718-9707