**** HRP Media Release
HRP statement on Crown’s decision related to charges against Ms. Santina Rao
Halifax Regional Police Chief Dan Kinsella issued the following statement on the Crown’s decision to not proceed with the charges against Ms. Santina Rao related to a January incident in Halifax.
“Halifax Regional Police is aware of the Crown’s decision to not proceed with the charges against Ms. Santina Rao related to an incident that took place on January 15, 2020 in Halifax. It was important for due process to unfold, and now the Crown has arrived at its decision based on an assessment of the evidence and public interest surrounding this incident.
“I recognize that while it was important for the matter to be examined by the Crown, this is one aspect of the process. The public expects HRP to apply an organizational lens and take a look at the various aspects of what took place. After learning of Ms. Rao’s injury, HRP had reported the incident to NS Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT), which is currently investigating the incident. I must now also allow that process to unfold before determining our next steps.
“Regardless of the outcome of the SiRT investigation or any next steps, today, I want to acknowledge the hurt this incident has caused to all involved. The trust between the public and a police service is crucial. We will let the process continue to its conclusion and we will learn from this incident and improve as an organization.
“This is a particularly difficult time for police-community relationships. The vast majority of HRP members serve this community with compassion, respect and an unerring sense of duty to serve. We also recognize there is more to be done and we are firm in our commitment to do better.
“We are unable to comment further on this matter at this time.”
