**** HRP / SiRT Media Release
HRP Statement regarding news stories about SiRT release
Halifax Regional Police issued the following statement related to recent news stories following a news release by the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT):
“Earlier today the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) issued a news release related to an incident involving Halifax Regional Police officers. Some media stories and news headlines have prematurely drawn the conclusion and left the impression that the deployment of a conductive energy weapon caused the death of the man. The investigation is in the early stages and there are many facts to be determined.
At this time we ask the public to refrain from forming conclusions based on these stories, and wait for SiRT to conclude its investigation into the matter. We also remind citizens that SiRT independently investigates all serious incidents involving police actions, and there does not have to be an allegation of wrongdoing. Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the deceased.”
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SiRT – Investigation Begins into Death of Dartmouth Man
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The province’s independent Serious Incident Response Team is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 28-year-old man in Dartmouth.
In the early hours of Monday, March 30, Halifax Regional Police officers responded to a call about a man who was inflicting self harm. Police arrived at the scene and entered the dwelling in an effort to ensure his safety. When police attempted to intervene to prevent the man from further harming himself, he became uncooperative. A Conducted Energy Weapon (tazer) was deployed to contain the individual. The man was transported to hospital by EHS where he succumbed to his injuries.
As a result of the incident and in accordance with the Police Act, SiRT was contacted shortly after the incident by HRP. SiRT has assumed responsibility for the investigation.
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.
