**** SiRT Release
Investigation Results in Charge Against Cape Breton Regional Police Officer
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The province’s independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) has laid one charge against a member of the Cape Breton Regional Police.
SiRT was contacted on May 7, 2023, by the Cape Breton Regional Police concerning an investigation they were conducting in relation to an alleged assault committed by an off-duty officer. The incident was alleged to have occurred in the Sydney area. SiRT commenced an investigation into the matter and has deemed that a charge is appropriate in the circumstances.
Cst. Curtis MacDonald is facing a charge of Assault Causing Bodily Harm. Cst MacDonald appeared on July 6, 2023, in the Provincial Court in Sydney NS. Cst. MacDonald’s next court appearance is scheduled for August 24, at 9:30 a.m., at the Sydney Provincial Court, 136 Charlotte Street, Sydney NS.
The Serious Incident Response Team is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The team can independently begin an investigation after a referral from a chief of police, the head of the RCMP in New Brunswick or Nova Scotia or the Minister of Justice of each province. 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.
