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2020 News Releases
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5 June, 2020
No Basis to Charge Officer in Relation to Man’s Self-Inflicted Death in Mississauga
In the morning hours of August 25, 2019, a 37-year-old man suffered a fatal, self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. A number of Peel Regional Police officers had been searching for him at the time and were present when the man shot himself. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer who had located the man committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s death.5 June, 2020
Man Dislocated Shoulder After Jumping Fence; SIU Terminates Chatham-Kent Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into an April incident that occurred in Chatham-Kent.5 June, 2020
SIU Finds Use of Force, Including Multiple CEW Deployments, was Lawful in Oshawa Arrest
On the evening of January 26, 2020, a 44-year-old man was arrested by Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) officers and subsequently diagnosed with a fractured right mandible. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that a DRPS officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.4 June, 2020
No Charges Warranted in Relation to Man’s Fatal Jump from Mississauga Overpass
In the early morning hours of September 6, 2019, a 27-year-old man fell to his death off the Derry Road overpass onto the southbound lanes of Hwy 410. Seconds prior to his death, two officers had arrived on the overpass to render assistance to the man. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no grounds to believe that either officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s death.4 June, 2020
No Basis to Proceed with Charges in Relation to Toronto Arrest
On the afternoon of November 1, 2019, a 61-year-old man suffered a broken right hip in the course of his arrest by Toronto Police Service (TPS) drug squad officers. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that a TPS officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.4 June, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Windsor Arrest
On May 7, 2019, Windsor Police Service officers were looking to locate a 27-year-old man as they had information he carried a firearm and had in the past rammed police vehicles while fleeing from apprehension. Officers located the man asleep in a parked SUV. but he managed to get away. A short time later, police found the man on the premises of a gas station and a struggle ensued. The man was arrested and taken to the police station. Thereafter, he was transported to hospital where he was diagnosed with fractured right-sided ribs. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that any officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.3 June, 2020
No Charges to Issue Against Officer in Relation to Markham Fatal Collision
On December 31, 2019, a York Regional Police officer was on patrol when she observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. The officer followed the vehicle with the intention of stopping it. When the officer lost sight of the vehicle, she turned off her lights and siren, slowed down and disengaged. In the area of Ninth Line and Elgin Mills Road East, the vehicle of interest collided with another vehicle, injuring a 68-year-old man from the second vehicle. CPR was administered, but the man succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the collision and the man’s needless and tragic death.3 June, 2020
June 3, 2020 Update: SIU Investigation into Woman’s Fatal Fall from Toronto Balcony
The SIU investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of 29-year-old Regis Korchinski-Paquet – who fell from a Toronto apartment balcony on Wednesday, May 27, 2020 – continues. Yesterday, SIU investigators interviewed an additional two civilian witnesses. A canvass of the area for potential additional witnesses is ongoing.2 June, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into North Bay Apprehension of Woman
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the January apprehension of a 27-year-old woman in North Bay. The SIU was made aware of the incident on May 6, 2020.1 June, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Arrest of Man in Richmond Hill
On December 14, 2019, a 45-year-old man was arrested at his residence in Richmond Hill and diagnosed later that day with a fractured left ankle. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that a York Regional Police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.1 June, 2020
Criminal Charges not Warranted in Relation to Shooting Death of Man in Kingston
On the afternoon of September 12, 2019, a Kingston Police officer was on routine patrol when he was flagged down by a pedestrian who reported that a man was up the street stabbing people. The officer immediately attended and attempted to arrest the 22-year-old man. During the interaction, the officer discharged his firearm and the man was fatally shot. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe the officer committed a criminal offence in relation to the discharge of his firearm and the subsequent death of the man.1 June, 2020
June 1, 2020 Update: SIU Investigation into Woman’s Fatal Fall from Toronto Balcony
SIU investigators are continuing their work to determine what transpired before the death of 29-year-old Regis Korchinski-Paquet, who fell from a Toronto apartment balcony on Wednesday, May 27, 2020.29 May, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Firearm Discharge by Police Officer in Mississauga; Man was Not Injured
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the August 2019 police-involved shooting in Mississauga.29 May, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Toronto Arrest
On the morning of August 26, 2019, a 45-year-old man was arrested in an apartment building by Emergency Task Force officers with the Toronto Police Service. In the process, the man suffered a fractured jaw. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that any of the officers committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.29 May, 2020
Update: SIU Investigation into Woman’s Fatal Fall from Toronto Balcony
The Special Investigations Unit continues to make progress in its investigation of the events leading up to the death of 29-year-old Regis Korchinski-Paquet, who fell from a Toronto apartment balcony on Wednesday.28 May, 2020
Man’s Death at Elliot Lake Probation and Parole Office was Self-Inflicted; No Charges to Issue Against any OPP Officer
On the morning of April 20, 2020, a 49-year-old man attended the Elliot Lake Probation and Parole Office for a scheduled meeting. A few minutes later, two Ontario Provincial Police officers arrived at the office to arrest the man for having breached a condition of a prohibition order. At news that the officers were there to arrest him, the man became agitated and asked that the officers not enter the room he was in. Shortly thereafter, the man shot himself with a handgun he had retrieved from his waistband. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined the man was alone responsible for his self-inflicted death, and thus there is no basis for proceeding with criminal charges in this case against any police officer.28 May, 2020
SIU Continues Investigation into Woman’s Death in Toronto
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a 29-year-old woman yesterday in Toronto. She fell from the balcony of a 24th floor apartment unit while Toronto Police Service officers were in the building. A post-mortem will be conducted this afternoon.28 May, 2020
Officer Did Not Cause or Contribute to Sarnia Motorcycle Collision; No Charges to Issue
In the early morning hours of September 11, 2019, the Sarnia Police Service received a report of a motorcycle having been stolen. Shortly thereafter, the motorcycle was spotted and two officers in separate vehicles attempted to stop it. The motorcycle operator, a 35-year-old man, lost control of the motorcycle and crashed it in an intersection. He was transported to hospital where he was diagnosed with having sustained a fractured right arm. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer either caused or contributed to the collision in question, or otherwise drove dangerously in violation of the Criminal Code.27 May, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Arrest of Man in Corunna
On December 21, 2019, a 41-year-old man suffered a fracture to his right upper arm while being arrested at an address in Corunna by several Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that an OPP officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.27 May, 2020
No Basis to Charge York Regional Police Officer in Relation to Toronto Incident that Saw SUV Collide with Gas Tanker and GO Bus
In the early morning hours of October 15, 2019, a 13-year-old boy and a 14-year-old boy were seriously injured when the SUV in which they were occupants was involved in a motor vehicle collision in a Toronto intersection. Moments prior to the collision, a York Regional Police officer had briefly pursued the SUV. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the collision.27 May, 2020
SIU Investigating Falling Death of Woman in Toronto
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 29-year-old woman this evening in Toronto.26 May, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Man’s Arrest Outside of Walmart in St. Catharines
On November 17, 2019, a Walmart store employee in St. Catharines notified police that a man was behaving strangely, and that store management wished to have him removed from the property. Police attended and arrested the man outside of the store. Once the 35-year-old man was handcuffed, it was discovered that he had a cut under his right eye which was bleeding heavily. At hospital, the man was assessed as having a fracture to the orbital bone of his right eye. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that the level of force used by police was reasonably necessary in the circumstances, and as such, no charges will issue.26 May, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Pickering Arrest
On October 11, 2019, Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) officers were dispatched to a residence in Pickering following a 911 call from the home reporting that a man was in possession of a knife, and there was concern about his behavior. Upon their arrival, the officers saw the 63-year-old man outside his residence and holding the knife. When the man would not drop his knife after being repeatedly asked to do so, an officer discharged his conducted energy weapon at the man. The man was arrested and transported to hospital where he was diagnosed with a fractured wrist. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that a DRPS committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s injury.25 May, 2020
Officer Acted Lawfully in Scarborough Arrest of Woman; No Basis to Proceed with Criminal Charges
On October 4, 2019, a Toronto Police Service (TPS) officer arrested a 37-year-old woman in Scarborough on an outstanding warrant for theft. Following the arrest, the woman was transported to hospital where she was diagnosed with a fracture to her left ankle. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the TPS officer acted other than lawfully throughout his dealings with the woman, and therefore there is no basis for proceeding with criminal charges and the file is closed.25 May, 2020
No Charges Warranted in Relation to St. Thomas Arrest
On the evening of November 23, 2019, a 33-year-old man was arrested by St. Thomas Police Service officers and suffered injuries in the process. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no grounds to believe that either of the arresting officers committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.22 May, 2020
SIU Investigating Death of Woman at Police Station in Niagara Falls
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 24-year-old woman yesterday in Niagara Falls.22 May, 2020
Man Injured Hip After Fall in Hospital Waiting Room; SIU Terminates Hamilton Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the injury sustained by a 78-year-old man earlier this month in Hamilton.21 May, 2020
SIU Investigating Death of Man in Victoria Harbour
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 77-year-old man yesterday in Victoria Harbour.
21 May, 2020
No Basis to Proceed with Charges in Case Where OPP Officer Shot Man in Toronto
In the early afternoon hours of October 9, 2019, in Toronto, a 26-year-old man was shot and wounded by an Ontario Provincial Police officer in the course of his arrest. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.20 May, 2020
Arrest of Man in London was Lawful; SIU Closes File
On August 9, 2019, London Police Service (LPS) officers were dispatched to a residence for a domestic incident. When the first officer arrived, a 30-year-old man was brandishing a toy knife and goading the officer to fight him. The officer ordered the man to drop the knife and, when the man did not cooperate, the officer took the man to the floor. Other officers arrived to assist with the arrest. While in police cells, the man complained of pain in his right hand. He was transported to hospital where he was diagnosed with having sustained a fractured metacarpal. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that whether or not the first officer caused or contributed to the man’s injury, there is no basis to believe that the officer acted other than lawfully in his dealings with the man.20 May, 2020
Man Arrested in Ottawa for Outstanding Warrant Held by Smith Falls Police Service; No Criminal Wrongdoing on Part of Ottawa Police Service Officers
At approximately 12:30 p.m. on September 16, 2019, a 43-year-old man was arrested by Ottawa Police Service (OPS) officers on an outstanding warrant held by the Smith Falls Police Service (SFPS). The man was transported to the OPS station, where he was held pending the arrival of SFPS officers. When the man was picked up by the SFPS, the officers noticed that he had swelling and bruising to his left eye and cheek. The man alleged that an OPS officer had struck him during his arrest. The man was taken to hospital where a CT scan revealed that he had sustained a comminuted fracture involving the wall of the left orbit. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined the evidence establishes that the man was not assaulted during the course of his arrest, nor was any force used against him by either of the police officers involved in his arrest. As such, no charges will issue and this file is closed.15 May, 2020
No Basis to Charge Officer in Connection with Man’s Death in Lac Seul
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, says he is unable to form reasonable grounds to believe that an Ontario Provincial Police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the death of a 38-year-old man in Kejick Bay, Lac Seul First Nation, on November 19, 2019.15 May, 2020
Criminal Charges not Warranted in Relation to Death of Man in Brantford Inn
On November 3, 2019, the Hamilton Police Service Emergency Response Unit was called out to an inn in the City of Brantford in regard to a 33-year-old man who was believed to be inside the inn, and who was wanted in relation to a double homicide investigation. After evacuating the guests, attempts were made to contact the man but there was no response from within the man’s room. Shortly after, a single gunshot was heard coming from within the room. Upon entering the room, police officers discovered the man to be vital signs absent on the bed with a gunshot wound and a handgun under his left hand. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds for proceeding with criminal charges in connection with the man’s death.15 May, 2020
Criminal Charges not Warranted in Relation to Woman’s Fall from Barrie Apartment Balcony
On March 25, 2020, two officers with the Barrie Police Service attended a 10th floor unit in an apartment building to check on the well-being of a 79-year-old woman. The officers knocked on the door, announced who they were and indicated they were there to make sure she was fine. There was no response. When one of the officers went to the main floor to get a key to the unit, he was informed that the woman was lying on the ground at the rear of the building. First aid was rendered, but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that either officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the woman’s falling death.14 May, 2020
Criminal Charges not Warranted in Relation to Man’s Arrest in Mississauga
In the early morning hours of October 11, 2019, a 43-year-old man was arrested by Peel Regional Police officers in Mississauga. He was subsequently taken to hospital and diagnosed with a minor collapse of his lower left lung and a small puncture wound to the lower right torso. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that a PRP officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.14 May, 2020
No Basis to Proceed with Charges in Relation to Arrest of Man in Ripley
On the night of January 6, 2020, in Ripley, a 21-year-old man assaulted an individual in the area of Ripley Street. The individual managed to get away. A short time later, the 21-year-old man assaulted another individual in the area. Civilians managed to pin the man on the ground while awaiting the arrival of Ontario Provincial Police officers. Following his arrest, the man was taken to the police station and lodged in cells. He was subsequently taken to hospital where he was diagnosed with a fractured right hand. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, says the man’s hand injury appeared to have occurred prior to the officers arriving at the scene, and there is no evidence that any of the arresting officers acted other than professionally throughout their dealings with the man. Accordingly, there is no basis to proceed with criminal charges against any police officer in this case and the file is closed.13 May, 2020
Criminal Charges not Warranted in Relation to Man’s Arrest in Markham
On the night of August 15, 2019, a York Regional Police officer was on patrol in Markham when he observed a 37-year-old man, whom he knew to be wanted on several arrest warrants. The officer placed the man under arrest, during the course of which the man sustained a broken nose. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s injury.13 May, 2020
Use of Police Dog in Mississauga Arrest Determined to be Reasonable
On the afternoon of December 3, 2019, Peel Regional Police was notified that an impaired driver had crashed his pickup truck in the parking lot of a self-storage facility on Summerville Court in Mississauga. Officers arrived at the scene and soon after located the driver – a 41-year-old man – inside his storage unit. When the man was confronted by officers outside the unit, the man refused to show them both hands or assist in lifting the door. The officers lifted the door, and one of the officers released his police dog. The dog proceeded to bite into the man’s lower left leg. With the dog still latched to the leg, officers entered the unit and arrested the man. The man was transported to hospital where he was diagnosed and treated for several lacerations and puncture wounds. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the dog’s handler committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.13 May, 2020
Criminal Charges not Warranted in Relation to U-Haul Truck Collision in White River, and Snowmobile Collision in Wawa
On November 25, 2019, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received a 911 call reporting that the driver of a U-Haul truck had filled up at a gas station on Highway 17 in White River and left without paying. An officer who was in the area spotted the truck and initiated a brief pursuit, which was terminated soon after. At some point, the U-Haul truck became involved in a collision. The occupants abandoned the truck and fled on a snowmobile. Shortly thereafter, the snowmobile crashed, resulting in serious injuries to a 29-year-old man. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there is no basis for proceeding with charges against an OPP officer, and the file is closed.12 May, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Arrest of Man in Timmins
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the November arrest of a 36-year-old man. The SIU became aware of the incident on January 10, 2020.12 May, 2020
No Basis to Proceed with Charges in Relation to Welland Fatal Collision Involving Motorcycle
On August 16, 2019, a Niagara Regional Police Service officer was driving his cruiser in Welland when he observed a motorcycle being operated at a high rate of speed. With the intention of stopping the motorcycle, the officer turned on his emergency lighting system and made a U-turn to follow. However, for safety purposes, the officer immediately turned off his emergency lights and abandoned any possible vehicular pursuit before it had even started. A short time later, the motorcycle became involved in a collision with another vehicle. The 25-year-old motorcycle rider was pronounced dead at the scene. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there is no basis to proceed with criminal charges in this case and the file is closed.11 May, 2020
SIU Investigating After Woman Shot by Police Officer in Mississauga
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a police-involved shooting that occurred last night in Mississauga.10 May, 2020
SIU Investigating Death of Man in North Bay
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 60-year-old man this morning in North Bay.8 May, 2020
No Criminal Charges Warranted in Brantford Police-Involved Shooting
On the morning of July 31, 2019, a 48-year-old man called 911 requesting police and paramedic assistance. The man advised the 911 operator that he would wait for police at the Polish Hall on Pearl Street in Brantford. Brantford Police Service officers were dispatched both to the man’s residence and to the Polish Hall, the latter being where the man was located. An interaction ensued between the man and officers, with two of the officers discharging their firearms. The man sustained multiple gunshot wounds resulting in severe injuries. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that a criminal offence was committed by either police officer.
8 May, 2020
SIU Determines Officer Did Not Commit Criminal Offence in Relation to Fatal Shooting in Stone Mills
In the evening of November 12, 2019, a 48-year-old man was shot multiple times by an Ontario Provincial Police officer in the Township of Stone Mills, resulting in the man succumbing to his injuries. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s death8 May, 2020
Officers Acted Lawfully in Arrest of Man at Toronto Hotel; No Charges to Issue
In the early morning of November 5, 2019, Toronto Police Service officers attended a hotel in Toronto after receiving information about an assault. Following a struggle between two police officers and a 52-year-old man, the man was arrested. He was taken to hospital for treatment of serious injuries. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that either officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.7 May, 2020
SIU Terminates Ottawa Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into an interaction that occurred in March between Ottawa Police Service officers and a 42-year-old man.7 May, 2020
SIU Terminates Mississauga Investigation as Police Officer did Not Cause or Contribute to Man’s Injury
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the arrest of a 29-year-old man last month in Mississauga.7 May, 2020
No Basis for Charges in Relation to Arrest of Man in Home Depot Parking Lot in Windsor
In the afternoon of October 29, 2019, a reportedly stolen SUV being operated by a 40-year-old man was under surveillance by officers with the Windsor Police Service officers. When the driver parked the SUV in a Home Depot parking lot, officers boxed it in to prevent the vehicle’s escape. The man put the SUV in motion and maneuvered it back and forth several times, striking police vehicles behind and in front of him, as officers yelled at him to stop and show his hands. The man was eventually removed from the vehicle and handcuffed. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that any officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.6 May, 2020
SIU Investigating Falling Injuries Sustained by Man in London
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the falling injuries sustained by a 26-year-old man last night in London.6 May, 2020
SIU Appealing for Witnesses to Hamilton Arrest
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding an arrest that occurred earlier this week in Hamilton.6 May, 2020
No Basis to Charge Officer in Relation to Arrest of Bike Rider in Toronto
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that a Toronto Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the arrest of a man on August 12, 2019. The man, who had been riding a bike prior to his arrest, was diagnosed with a fractured jaw.6 May, 2020
No Basis to Charge Officer in Relation to Toronto Collision
On August 26, 2019, a Toronto Police Service officer attempted to stop an SUV for Highway Traffic Act infractions. The driver initially pulled over, but then fled. The officer followed. Moments later, the SUV struck a parked vehicle, and then collided with a Honda Civic being driven by a 35-year-old man. The driver of the Civic was transported to hospital where he was diagnosed with serious injuries. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the circumstances surrounding the man’s injuries.5 May, 2020
No Basis to Charge Officer in Relation to Collision in Matheson Between Car and Tractor-Trailer
On the morning of September 24, 2019, a 28-year-old man was seriously injured when the vehicle he was driving struck a tractor-trailer on Highway 11 just south and east of Matheson, Ontario. When the collision occurred, an Ontario Provincial Police officer had been following the driver at a distance. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s injuries.
5 May, 2020
No Criminal Charges Warranted in Relation to Elgin County Arrest
In the early morning hours of October 7, 2019, Ontario Provincial Police officers were dispatched to a hemp farm located in Elgin County. There had been a break, enter and theft at the farm, with ten to twelve individuals fleeing into the adjoining fields. A 25-year-old man was located in the field and arrested. He was later taken to hospital where he was diagnosed with having sustained two non-displaced fractures. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that none of the involved officers committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s injury.4 May, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Man’s Fall from Toronto Apartment Balcony
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the falling injuries sustained by a 43-year-old man in February in Toronto.4 May, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Toronto Collision Between Police Vehicle and Civilian Vehicle
On the evening of September 18, 2019, an unmarked police vehicle was involved in a collision with a civilian vehicle in a Toronto intersection. A 21-year-old man was injured in the collision, having sustained a wrist fracture. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, said while the officer was largely, if not solely, responsible for the collision, he is satisfied on balance that the manner in which the officer operated his police vehicle did not rise to the level necessary to meet the definition of dangerous driving.4 May, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Midland Arrest
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the October 2019 arrest of a 37-year-old man by Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers in Midland.2 May, 2020
SIU Investigating Police-Involved Shooting in Mississauga
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a police-involved shooting of a 29-year-old man this morning in Mississauga.1 May, 2020
No Charges to Issue for Officer’s Use of Police Service Dog in Mississauga Arrest
On the night of July 24, 2019, Peel Regional Police officers engaged in a pursuit of a pickup truck which was reportedly involved in several break and enters and thefts. Sometime after the pursuit was terminated, that same pickup truck was found to have been involved in a collision. Two people from the truck were located at the scene, and after a search, two other individuals from the vehicle were located hiding in the backyard of a Mississauga residence. A police service dog entered the area and gripped one of the individuals – an 18-year-old female – causing a serious injury that required treatment at hospital. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined the arrest was lawful and that there are no reasonable grounds to believe the K-9 officer was criminally negligent in his use of the dog.1 May, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Collision Between Motorcycle and Police SUV in West Lincoln
On August 24, 2019, a Niagara Regional Police Service officer was conducting speed enforcement in West Lincoln when he observed a motorcycle traveling westbound on Silver Street at a high rate of speed. The officer radioed this information to another officer. When the second officer motioned the 39-year-old motorcyclist to pull over, the man made a U-turn and accelerated away. Shortly thereafter, the motorcycle struck the first officer’s vehicle, which had been positioned across the eastbound lanes of traffic. The man was ejected from the motorcycle and transported to hospital where he was diagnosed with serious injuries. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with this case.30 April, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Arrest of Man in Hamilton
On September 8, 2019, a 29-year-old man broke his left hip in the course of being arrested by two Hamilton Police Service (HPS) officers. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that an HPS officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.30 April, 2020
Woman’s Injury not Caused by Police Officers; SIU Terminates Belleville Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the injury sustained last month by a 43-year-old woman in Belleville.30 April, 2020
Criminal Charges not Warranted in Relation to Windsor Arrest
On the evening of August 6, 2019, Windsor Police Service (WPS) officers came across a 31-year-old man who was wanted on several outstanding charges. The man fled on foot and the officers pursued him. The man was arrested, taken to the police station and lodged in a cell. He was subsequently transported to hospital where he was diagnosed with the fracture of a left finger. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that a WPS officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.30 April, 2020
SIU Investigating Fatal Police-Involved Shooting in Toronto
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal police-involved shooting of a 30-year-old man today in Toronto.29 April, 2020
Officer Did Not Cause or Contribute to Huntsville Collision; SIU Closes File
On August 23, 2019, an Ontario Provincial Police officer was manning a simulated RIDE checkpoint in Huntsville when he signaled the driver of an Audi to stop. Instead, the driver sped off, almost striking the officer. The officer entered his police vehicle and pursued the Audi for a brief time before terminating the pursuit. Shortly thereafter, the Audi crashed into a parked car resulting in injuries to the 32-year-old male driver of the Audi and his 24-year-old female passenger. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer either caused or contributed to the collision in question, or otherwise drove dangerously in violation of the Criminal Code.29 April, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Arrest of Man in Toronto
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that a Toronto Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the arrest of a 52-year-old man in August of 2019. Following his arrest, the man complained that he may have suffered a stroke or a heart attack and he was transported to hospital. Once at hospital, it was discovered that the man had fractured his right femur.28 April, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation Man’s Arrest Outside Bar in Collingwood
At approximately 1 a.m. on July 28, 2019, Ontario Provincial Police officers attended a bar in Collingwood and arrested a 25-year-old man under the Liquor Licence Act. The man was transported to hospital and diagnosed with a broken nose. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined the officers conducted themselves lawfully throughout the interaction. Accordingly, there are no grounds to proceed with criminal charges in this case and the file is closed.28 April, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Man’s Death Days After Imprisonment in Burk’s Fall OPP Cell
On March 15, 2019, a 54-year-old man passed away at the Huntsville District Memorial Hospital. He had been admitted to the hospital 11 days earlier following a cocaine overdose. As the overdose reportedly occurred while the man was imprisoned in a cell of the Ontario Provincial Police Burk’s Falls Detachment, the SIU commenced an investigation. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s death.24 April, 2020
Man Injured After Falling from Tree; SIU Terminates Simcoe County Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the injury sustained earlier this month by a 35-year-old man in Adjala-Tosorontio, a township in Simcoe County.24 April, 2020
No Basis to Proceed with Charges in Relation to North Bay Arrest of Man
On August 20, 2019, a 59-year-old man sustained serious injuries, including a fractured hip, in the course of his arrest at an address on Main Street East in North Bay. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the arresting officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.24 April, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Fatal Collision in New Tecumseth
On the night of September 16, 2019, an Ontario Provincial Police officer observed a vehicle travelling eastbound on 6th Line in New Tecumseth and noticed an issue with the rear licence plate. As a result, the officer made a U-turn to execute a vehicle stop. The driver of the vehicle accelerated, and the officer lost sight of the vehicle. Moments later, the vehicle ran a stop sign at the intersection of 5th Line and 20th Sideroad, striking a Volkswagen. The 23-year-old driver of the Volkswagen sustained serious injuries, and her passenger, a 36-year-old woman, was later pronounced dead at hospital. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe the officer either caused or contributed to the collision in question, or otherwise drove dangerously in violation of the Criminal Code.22 April, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Fatal Police-Involved Shooting in Tecumseh
On the night of June 14, 2019, the mother of a 48-year-old man contacted 911 and informed that her son was holed up with knives in the bathroom of his Tecumseh home and was threatening to harm himself. Ontario Provincial Police officers were dispatched to the home. Following a period of negotiation, a physical altercation ensued between the officers and the man culminating in the man being fatally shot by an officer. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s death.22 April, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Arrest of Man in Niagara Falls
On March 3, 2019, a 54-year-old man suffered a fractured nose which was diagnosed following his arrest by Niagara Regional Police Service officers. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that any of the involved officers committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.21 April, 2020
SIU Investigating Death of Man in Elliot Lake
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 49-year-old man yesterday in Elliot Lake.20 April, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Arrest of Man in Oshawa
In the early morning hours of December 23, 2018, a Durham Regional Police Service officer was on patrol in his cruiser taking part in the service’s RIDE program. After observing a 23-year-old man leave a bar and enter a vehicle, the officer followed the vehicle. When the vehicle came to a stop, the man was asked to take a roadside breath test. After learning that the test registered an “ALERT”, the man fled on foot into a forested area. Shortly thereafter, officers located the man and arrested him. Later that day, the man was taken to hospital and diagnosed with a fractured finger. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that whether the man’s injury occurred while he and the officer were physically engaged, or he was alone running to get away, the officer’s conduct was legally justified throughout and there are therefore no grounds for proceeding with charges in this case.20 April, 2020
No Basis to Charge Officer in Relation to London Collision
On August 13, 2019, a 38-year-old man sustained a fractured ankle and a back injury when the motor vehicle in which he was the rear seat passenger collided with a tree. Immediately prior to the collision, the vehicle was being driven at high speeds in an attempt to evade an officer with the Ontario Provincial Police. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, is unable to reasonably conclude that the manner in which the officer operated his cruiser ran afoul of the criminal law’s proscriptions, notwithstanding the speeds he reached during his engagement with the vehicle. Consequently, there is no basis for proceeding with charges in this case and the file is closed.18 April, 2020
SIU Investigating Death of Man in Toronto
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 32-year-old man last night in Toronto.18 April, 2020
Update: Further Details Regarding SIU Death Investigation in Toronto
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a 32-year-old man last night in Toronto.17 April, 2020
Police Officer Did Not Cause or Contribute to Motorcycle Collision in Essex County; No Charges to Issue
On July 19, 2019, an Ontario Provincial Police officer observed a motorcycle being operated in Essex County, and made the decision to pursue it. When the 46-year-old operator of the motorcycle drove through a stop sign without stopping, the officer terminated the pursuit. Shortly thereafter, the motorcycle was involved in a collision with a parked motor vehicle. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to lay charges against the officer in relation to the serious injuries sustained by the man.16 April, 2020
Officer Faces Charges in Relation to London Collision between Police Vehicle and Taxi Cab that Injured Mother and Daughter
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), Joseph Martino, has reasonable grounds to believe an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer committed criminal offences in relation to a London collision that occurred in July of 2019 between a police vehicle and a taxi cab. As a result, Director Martino has caused charges to be laid against the officer.16 April, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Police-Involved Shooting in Toronto Restaurant Drive-thru
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against a Toronto Police Service officer in relation to a police-involved shooting that occurred in the area of Jane Street and Falstaff Avenue in October of 2019. As a result of the shooting, a 29-year-old man was treated at hospital for gunshot wounds to his right shoulder blade, his right forearm, and his left thigh.15 April, 2020
SIU Investigating Police-Involved Shooting in Scarborough
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a police-involved shooting of a 43-year-old man today in Scarborough.15 April, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Police-Involved Shooting in Sudbury
In the evening of April 10, 2019, a 22-year-old man was in a pickup truck with his girlfriend parked at an Esso gas station on Regent Street in Sudbury when his vehicle was suddenly surrounded by the police. Officers with the Greater Sudbury Police Service officers had followed the truck to the location intending to arrest its occupants. Within seconds of the officers’ arrival, an officer discharged his firearm multiple times, resulting in the man being wounded. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the shooting.14 April, 2020
No Charges to Issues in Relation to Man’s Arrest in Lindsay
On July 8, 2019, a 75-year-old man was arrested in the parking lot of the Lindsay Recreation Complex by a City of Kawartha Lakes Police Service officer. The following morning, the man was taken to the hospital where he was diagnosed with an orbital fracture. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to lay charges against the officer in relation to the man’s arrest.14 April, 2020
Man Died After Sustaining Multiple Self-Inflicted Stab Wounds; SIU Closes File into Toronto Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the death of a 40-year-old man last month in Toronto.13 April, 2020
SIU Investigating After Man Struck by Police Cruiser in Toronto
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the serious injury sustained by a 28-year-old man yesterday in the course of his arrest by police officers with the Toronto Police Service.13 April, 2020
SIU Investigating Collision in Toronto Between Police Cruiser and Civilian Vehicle
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a collision that occurred today in Toronto.10 April, 2020
SIU Investigating After Man Fatally Shot by Police at Residence in Temiskaming Shores
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal police-involved shooting last night of a 43-year-old man in Temiskaming Shores.
9 April, 2020
Man Injured Hand When he Jumped from Bridge to Pathway; SIU Terminates Ottawa Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury sustained by a 31-year-old man last month in Ottawa.9 April, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Huron County Apprehension of Man
On July 12, 2019, police were called to a residence in the Community of Vanastra, in Huron County, to assist paramedics who had attended to provide medical assistance to a 46-year-old man. Upon the arrival of police, they found the man to be highly intoxicated, combative, and belligerent. Based on comments made by the man, it was decided that he would be apprehended under the Mental Health Act. Following his apprehension, he was transported to hospital where he was diagnosed as having sustained a fracture to his right shoulder. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to lay charges against an Ontario Provincial Police officer in relation to this case.
8 April, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Highway 417 Collision near Arnprior that Resulted in the Deaths of Two People
On July 7, 2019, an Ottawa Police Service officer spotted a vehicle of interest, a Honda Civic, and proceeded to engage in a police pursuit on the 417 Highway in the Ottawa area. Shortly thereafter, the Civic crashed head-on into two motor vehicles, killing the 62-year-old female driver of one and seriously injuring the driver and passenger of another. The 36-year-old male driver of the Civic also died as a result of injuries sustained in the collision. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the pursuing officer either caused or contributed to the collision in question, or otherwise drove dangerously in violation of the Criminal Code.8 April, 2020
UPDATE RE: Fatal Police-involved Shooting in Brampton
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal police-involved shooting of a 26-year-old man earlier this week in Brampton. One subject officer and four witness officers have been designated. A post-mortem was conducted this morning in Toronto.7 April, 2020
Man in London Set Himself on Fire; No Charges Against Police in Relation to Incident
On August 2, 2019, a 49-year-old man attended an Immigration, Refugee, and Canadian Citizenship office in London. When the man told the office he was going to kill himself, the office contacted the police. London Police Service officers attempted to dissuade the man from setting himself on fire; instead, however, the man doused himself in gasoline. Officers fired their BIP launchers at the man, hoping to either distract or disable him, but the man ultimately set himself on fire. The flames were doused, and the man was taken to hospital for treatment of his burns. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that any of the officers present committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s injuries.7 April, 2020
Man’s Hand Injury Due to Punching Cell Door; SIU Terminates Quinte West Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury sustained by a 34-year-old man last month while he was lodged in a police station cell in Quinte West.6 April, 2020
SIU Investigating After Man Fatally Shot by Police Officer in Brampton
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal police-involved shooting today of a 26-year-old man in Brampton.5 April, 2020
SIU Appealing for Witnesses to Toronto Collision Between Bus and Vehicle
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is appealing for witnesses to a collision that occurred yesterday in Toronto between a vehicle and a Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) bus.31 March, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Petawawa Collison Between Police Cruiser and Minivan
On the afternoon of September 25, 2019, a police cruiser being operated by an OPP officer with the Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment became involved in a collision with a minivan in the intersection of Petawawa Boulevard and Canadian Forces Drive. As a result of the collision, the 61-year-old female driver of the minivan sustained a concussion, while her front seat passenger, a 56-year-old male, sustained a fracture to his foot. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that notwithstanding the officer’s apparent responsibility for the collision, he is satisfied on balance that the manner in which the officer operated his police vehicle did not rise to the level necessary to meet the definition of dangerous driving. As such, no criminal charges will issue, and the file has been closed.30 March, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Fatal Police-involved Shooting in Scarborough
In the evening hours of June 25, 2019, Toronto Police Service (TPS) officers with the Guns and Gangs Task Force surrounded a vehicle in the area of Midland Avenue and Midwest Road to arrest the 21-year-old male driver on an outstanding arrest warrant. When the man drove forward and struck an officer, another officer fired three shots at the man. The man was transported to hospital where he was subsequently pronounced dead. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that a TPS officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s death.26 March, 2020
Due to Absence of Statement and No Medical Records, SIU Terminates Toronto Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into an interaction that occurred earlier this month between a 40-year-old man and Toronto Police Service officers.25 March, 2020
SIU Investigating Falling Death of Woman in Barrie
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 79-year-old woman today in Barrie.21 March, 2020
SIU Investigating Interaction in Etobicoke Preceding Man’s Death
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 33-year-old man today in Etobicoke.20 March, 2020
Durham Regional Police Service Officer Charged with Sexual Assault
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), Joseph Martino, has caused charges to be laid against a Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) officer in relation to incidents that reportedly occurred in Oshawa in 2017 and 2018.17 March, 2020
SIU Investigating Man’s Death in Toronto
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man earlier this afternoon in Toronto.16 March, 2020
SIU Investigating Incident in Ottawa
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the serious injuries sustained by a 42-year-old man in Ottawa, last night.13 March, 2020
SIU Investigating Death of Man in Shuniah
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 31-year-old man yesterday in Shuniah, a municipality bordering the city of Thunder Bay.13 March, 2020
SIU Investigating Death of Man in Thunder Bay
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 29-year-old man on the weekend in Thunder Bay.11 March, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into injury of Man in Brantford
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into an interaction that occurred in January, between police officers and a 31-year-old man.6 March, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Arrest of Man in Hawkesbury
On May 10, 2019, a 31-year-old man passed away at the Ottawa Civic Hospital. He had been admitted to hospital in critical condition on May 2, 2019, following his apprehension by several Ontario Provincial Police officers at a home in Hawkesbury. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined that in terms of the force that was used and the care the officers exercised, they acted lawfully throughout their involvement with the man. Accordingly, there is no basis to proceed with charges and the file is closed.5 March, 2020
SIU Finds No Basis to Proceed with Charges in Relation to Man’s Arrest in Cambridge
On June 1, 2019, a 29-year-old man was arrested twice by Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) officers. On the second arrest, the man suffered a fracture of his right arm. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against a WRPS officer in relation to this incident.3 March, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Police-involved Shooting in Etobicoke
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against a Toronto Police Service officer in relation to a police-involved shooting on April 7, 2019 in an Etobicoke condominium. As a result of the shooting, an 18-year-old male sustained a gunshot wound to his right forearm.2 March, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Arrest of Barricaded Man in East York
On the night of June 18, 2019, Toronto Police Service officers were dispatched to a home in East York after a resident of the home reported that a man had forced his way into the residence and was currently barricaded in a bedroom while in the possession of a knife or fork. The house was contained from the outside pending the arrival of the Emergency Task Force (ETF). ETF officers entered the home and attempted to communicate with the man. Concerned for the man’s well-being, the officers forced the bedroom door open and arrested the man. Following his arrest, the man was taken to hospital where he was treated for stab wounds and a collapsed lung. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there is no basis for proceeding with charges in this case and the file is closed.2 March, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Thunder Bay Collision between Police and Civilian Vehicle
On June 11, 2019, an Ontario Provincial Police vehicle became involved in a collision with a civilian vehicle in the area of Golf Links Road and Donald Caddo Drive in Thunder Bay. Two individuals from the civilian vehicle – a 75-year-old man and a 62-year-old woman – suffered serious injuries. A 37-year-old male police officer from the police vehicle was also seriously injured. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer who was driving the police vehicle committed a criminal offence in connection with the accident.28 February, 2020
SIU Terminates Sioux Lookout Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury sustained in November by a 22-year-old man in Sioux Lookout.28 February, 2020
SIU Director Recognizes Patience and Vigilance of OPP Officers During Orillia Standoff; Investigation Discontinued
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injuries sustained last month by a 31-year-old man in Orillia.27 February, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Man’s Arrest by OPP Caledon Detachment Officers
On March 1, 2019, officers from the Caledon Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to a 911 call requesting police assistance. OPP officers responded to the residence and arrested and handcuffed a 43-year-old man, following which they transported him to the Nottawasaga OPP Detachment. The man later filed a complaint about the arrest with the Office of the Independent Police Review Director (OIPRD), with the matter coming to the SIU’s attention in August of 2019. SIU Director Joseph Martino has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that any police officer involved in the man’s arrest or imprisonment, assaulted him, causing any injury, and the file is closed.27 February, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Man’s Fall onto Highway 407 Exit Ramp
On September 12, 2019, several calls were received by the Ontario Provincial Police from motorists reporting the presence of a man on the metal gantry across the Highway 407 eastbound exit ramp leading to Highway 410. Several officers were dispatched to the scene, with two officers parking their cruisers in the area below the 29-year-old man. As these two officers emerged simultaneously from their vehicles and walked towards the man, the man fell from the gantry and landed in front of the officers. The man was transported to hospital where he was diagnosed with severe injuries, including a fractured skull. SIU Director Joseph Martino has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that either officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s fall.26 February, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Arrest of Man in Mississauga
On the afternoon of September 12, 2019, Peel Regional Police officers arrested two individuals in relation to break-and-enters that were being investigated. When a third individual escaped apprehension and ran away, an officer gave chase. Following a struggle that ensued between the officer and the 33-year-old man, the man was arrested. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against the officer in relation to the facial factures the man suffered in the course of his arrest.26 February, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Arrest of Woman Traveling Wrong Way on Highway 417
On the evening of April 12, 2019, Ontario Provincial Police officers were investigating the driving behavior of a 58-year-old woman who was operating her vehicle on Highway 417. When the woman began traveling west in the eastbound lanes, an officer used his cruiser to force her off the roadway. The woman was arrested, and then taken to hospital where she was diagnosed with a fracture to her lower leg. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against the officer in relation to the woman’s arrest and injury.25 February, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Orangeville Case
In the early morning hours of June 2, 2019, a 36-year-old woman was arrested and transported to the Orangeville Police Service (OPS) headquarter where she was lodged in a cell. While in the cell, the woman ingested cocaine and fell into medical distress. Paramedics attended the police station and transported her to hospital where she was placed on life support. While SIU Director Joseph Martino says the woman ought to have been subjected to a more thorough search and medical attention secured sooner than it was after she ingested cocaine in her cell, he is unable to reasonably conclude that any of the officers who dealt with the woman transgressed the limits of care prescribed by the criminal law.25 February, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Woman’s Fall from Roof of Ambulance Garage in Peterborough
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the falling injury sustained by a 28-year-old woman earlier this month in Peterborough.24 February, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Death of Man in Windsor
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the death last month of a 51-year-old man in Windsor.24 February, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Brant County Interaction
In the early morning hours of July 3, 2019, a group of individuals pranked a home in Brant County multiple times by knocking on the home’s door, and then fleeing. The home’s owner, a Brantford Police Service officer, and another officer, waited to see if the individuals would return. When they did return, the second officer became involved in an interaction with a 16-year-old male and informed the youth he was under arrest. The officers had the youths wait for the arrival of the OPP. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against any police officer in relation to this incident.21 February, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Interaction that Occurred While Man Lodged in Windsor Cell
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the injury sustained last month by a 40-year-old man in Windsor.21 February, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Shooting Death of Man in Ottawa
On January 31, 2019, 30-year-old Gregory Ritchie was shot at several times by two Ottawa Police Service officers. Mr. Ritchie was subsequently transported to hospital where he was pronounced deceased, the result of a gunshot wound he had sustained. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against any of the officers in relation to Mr. Ritchie’s death.19 February, 2020
OPP Officer Charged with Sexual Assault in Relation to Aurora Incident
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), Joseph Martino, has caused a charge to be laid against an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer in relation to an incident that reportedly occurred in August of 2019 in Aurora. The officer is with the Niagara satellite detachment of the Burlington detachment.19 February, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Arrest of Man in Belleville
After midnight on August 6, 2019, Belleville Police Service (BPS) officers attended a residence to deal with a domestic situation. In the course of being arrested by officers, a 38-year-old man suffered arm fractures. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against a BPS officer in relation to the serious injury sustained by the man.19 February, 2020
Man’s Injury Self-inflicted; SIU Terminates Scarborough Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury sustained by a 47-year-old man earlier this month during his arrest by Toronto Police Service officers.18 February, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Arrest of Man in Toronto Condominium Parking Lot
On the evening of December 7, 2018, Toronto Police Service (TPS) officers were investigating a 24-year-old man in relation to drug trafficking offences. When the vehicle in which the man was a passenger entered a condominium parking lot, plainclothes officers in unmarked vehicles followed and conducted a high-risk takedown of the van and its occupants. The 24-year-old man was arrested and later taken to hospital where he was diagnosed with an orbital bone fracture. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against a TPS officer in this case.18 February, 2020
No Grounds to Proceed with Charges in Relation to Collision Between Snowmobile and Cruiser in Wawa
On April 3, 2019, there was a collision between a snowmobile and an Ontario Provincial Police cruiser on Highway 101 in Wawa. The snowmobile operator was transported to hospital where he was treated for multiple fractures of his left leg. While Director Joseph Martino has no doubt that the officer was driving dangerously in the moments before the collision, and that his dangerous driving was largely responsible for what occurred, he is of the view that the evidence falls just short of justifying criminal charges against the officer.16 February, 2020
SIU Investigating Man’s Fall from Apartment Balcony in Oakville
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the serious injuries sustained by a 40-year-old man this morning in Oakville.12 February, 2020
SIU Investigating Death of Man in Alfred
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 50-year-old man yesterday in Alfred, west of Hawkesbury.5 February, 2020
SIU Investigating Woman’s Fall from Ambulance Garage in Peterborough
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the injury sustained by a 28-year-old woman yesterday in Peterborough when she fell from the ambulance garage of a hospital.3 February, 2020
UPDATE: Man Who was Shot by Police Officers in Scarborough has Died
On January 18, 2020, the SIU commenced an investigation into a police-involved shooting in Scarborough. As a result of the shooting, a 37-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment. The man was pronounced dead in hospital this morning.30 January, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Arrest of Man in his Sudbury Home
On April 4, 2019, a 44-year-old man was arrested by Greater Sudbury Police Service officers and suffered injuries in the process. The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against any of the arresting officers in relation to the man’s injuries, which included a spine fracture and two broken ribs.28 January, 2020
Man’s Injury in Cell Self-inflicted; SIU Terminates Barrie Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury sustained last month by a 37-year-old man while he was lodged in a police station cell in Barrie.24 January, 2020
SIU Investigating Injury to Man in Georgetown
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the serious injury sustained by a 46-year-old man earlier this week in Georgetown.23 January, 2020
SIU Lays Assault Charge Against Police Officer in Relation to Guelph Arrest
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), Joseph Martino, has reasonable grounds to believe a Guelph Police Service (GPS) officer committed a criminal offence in relation to the arrest of an 18-year-old male in October of 2019. As a result, Director Martino has caused a charge to be laid against the officer.18 January, 2020
SIU Investigating Police-involved Shooting in Scarborough
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a police-involved shooting today in Scarborough.16 January, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Interaction Between Man and Police Officers in Brampton
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into a November 2019 interaction that occurred in Brampton between a 31-year-old man and Peel Regional Police officers.16 January, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Cobourg Arrest
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the arrest last month of a 22-year-old man by Cobourg Police Service (CPS) officers.13 January, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Discharge of Firearm by Police Officer in Richmond Hill
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into an exchange of gunfire that occurred last month between a 34-year-old man and a York Regional Police officer in Richmond Hill.10 January, 2020
No Criminal Wrongdoing Found in Relation to Police-involved Shooting in Vaughan
Then Interim Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against a York Regional Police officer in relation to a police-involved shooting on August 13, 2019 in Vaughan. The driver of a vehicle being investigated by police was shot multiple times in the course of his arrest and was taken to hospital for treatment of gunshot wounds.10 January, 2020
No Basis to Lay Charges Against Police Officer in Relation to Arrest of Teenager in St. Thomas
Then Interim Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against a St. Thomas Police Service officer in relation to the serious injury sustained by a 14-year-old female in the course of her arrest on June 25, 2019.10 January, 2020
UPDATE: Man Who was Shot by Police Officer in Mississauga has Died
On January 7, 2020, the SIU commenced an investigation into a police-involved shooting in Mississauga. As a result of the shooting, a 28-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment. The man succumbed to his injuries today.9 January, 2020
SIU Terminates Investigation into Interaction Between Man and Niagara Regional Police Service Officers
The Interim Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into a July 3, 2016 interaction between a man and police officers. The SIU became aware of the incident on October 8, 2019 when notified by the Niagara Regional Police Service.7 January, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Kenora Arrest
On May 11, 2019, a 27-year-old man was arrested by Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers in Kenora. He was lodged in a cell, and then transported to hospital after he complained of pain in one leg. The Interim Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against an OPP officer in relation to the fractured and dislocated left knee with which the man was diagnosed.
7 January, 2020
SIU Investigating Police-involved Shooting in Mississauga
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a police-involved shooting this evening in Mississauga.4 January, 2020
SIU Investigating Death of Man in Windsor
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 51-year-old man last night in Windsor.3 January, 2020
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Police Pursuit that Preceded Collision in Toronto
On the morning of June 26, 2019, the Toronto Police Service (TPS) was made aware of a carjacking of a KIA. In the area of Weston Road and Little Avenue, a TPS officer spotted the stolen KIA and pursued it. A short time later, the KIA crashed into a dump truck. The 39-year-old male driver exited the vehicle following the collision and was arrested. The Interim Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges against the officer in relation to the fractured nose and fractured right-side rib the man sustained.2 January, 2020
UPDATE: Man Who Sustained Gunshot Wounds in St. Catharines has Died
On December 31, 2019, the SIU commenced an investigation into a police-involved shooting in St. Catharines. As a result of the shooting, a 56-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment. The man has since succumbed to his injuries. He was pronounced dead yesterday at 12:27 p.m.2 January, 2020
No Charges Warranted in Relation to Toronto Collision that Resulted in Death of Man and Injuries to his Wife
On June 22, 2019, a Toronto Police Service officer attempted to stop a Honda Civic to investigate its occupants. Moments later, the Civic t-boned a Chevrolet Malibu in the intersection of Scarborough Golf Club Road and Lawrence Avenue East. The 77-year-old driver of the Malibu died tragically in the collision, and his 74-year-old wife, who was sitting in the passenger seat, suffered serious injuries. The Interim Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to lay criminal charges in relation to this case.1 January, 2020
SIU Investigating Police-Involved Shooting in St. Catharines
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a police-involved shooting yesterday in St. Catharines that resulted in serious injuries to a 56-year-old man.1 January, 2020