External Investigation Ordered

An external investigation into the death of James Guy Bailey, which occurred on May 17, 2000, in the Cape Breton Regional Police lockup, has been ordered by Justice Minister Michael Baker. The investigation will be conducted under the Nova Scotia Police Act by an external police force to be named shortly.

"Staff in the police and public safety division of my department recommended that an external investigation take place, and I accept that recommendation," said Mr. Baker. "I also wish to take this opportunity to publicly express my condolences to the family."

As the death occurred in a jail, the medical examiner must investigate the cause of death under the Fatality Inquiries Act.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will be completing its report and will forward it to the chief judge of the Provincial Court.