Investigation Begins into Guysborough RCMP

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) is investigating an injury suffered by a man during his arrest by a member of the Guysborough detachment of the RCMP.

At about 1 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 14, a police officer responded to a complaint from Hart's Convenience Store in Boylston, Guysborough Co. A male had caused damage in the store with a wooden club, and then left with stolen property. After confirming his identity, the officer found him walking nearby on the East Side Harbour Road, still carrying the wooden club. When the officer attempted to arrest the man, a physical confrontation occurred on the side of the road. The male was eventually handcuffed and placed in the police vehicle. He was later taken to St. Martha's Regional Hospital in Antigonish where he was diagnosed with a fractured left elbow.

The Serious Incident Response Team is asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident to call its toll free number, 1-855-450-2010.

SIRT is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia, whether or not there is an allegation of wrongdoing. Investigations are under the direction and control of independent civilian director Ron MacDonald.

SIRT can independently launch an investigation or begin one 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 results of the investigation within three months after it is finished.