Domestic Assault Charge Laid Against RCMP Member

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) today laid one charge of assault against Cst. Darren Michael Simpson, a 51-year-old member of the RCMP. He was held overnight and will appear in Dartmouth Provincial Court later today.

On October 27, a 911 call was received by police dispatch about a complaint of domestic assault. RCMP Halifax District responded to the location and arrested a male member without incident.

In accordance with the Police Act, the RCMP immediately referred the incident to the Serious Incident Response Team, which assumed responsibility for the investigation.

The Serious Incident Response Team is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia, which includes all allegations of domestic violence

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:

Eric Taylor

Acting Director

902.478.4706