The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has concluded its investigation into an alleged assault by a Brandon Police Service (BPS) officer and has determined that no criminal charges should be laid.
In March 2016, BPS advised the IIU of an incident that occurred the afternoon of March 16 while responding to a call regarding a domestic dispute. An adult woman subsequently complained about the conduct of the attending officer, alleging the officer assaulted her.
Although there were no serious injuries, the IIU civilian director determined it to be in the public interest for the IIU to take over the investigation.
After reviewing the findings of IIU investigators, including a security video of the incident, civilian director Zane Tessler has written a report that states the actions of the subject officer were uncalled for and unjustified. However, he writes the paramount consideration is whether it is in the public interest for the criminal justice system to be the appropriate forum to deal with the matter. He further writes that discretion is warranted and no charges will be authorized against the subject officer.
Tessler concludes by encouraging the affected person to pursue her complaint against the officer in other forums, and also says the BPS may wish to determine whether further internal actions are warranted to deal with the officer’s conduct.
