Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) yesterday said it has started an investigation following allegations of misconduct during the arrest of a lawyer.
On January 23, the DRPS arrested and charged Sudine Riley with an offense pursuant to the Trespass to Property Act in relation to an incident that occurred at the Superior Court of Justice in Oshawa, said a police statement.
Riley, a lawyer, has since made allegations, via news media, of misconduct related to her arrest. “DRPS takes these allegations extremely seriously and has launched an investigation, which remains ongoing,” the statement said.
Under Ontario’s Community Safety and Policing Act (CSPA), police services are required to notify the Law Enforcement Complaints Agency (LECA) within seven days of becoming aware of a misconduct allegation that involves a member of the public. Durham Police Chief Moreira has submitted this notification. He has requested LECA to assume carriage of this matter.
In addition, because of information contained in the media, the DRPS notified the Special Investigations Unit (SIU). At this time, the SIU has advised that it will not be invoking its mandate, the DRPS statement said.
It said for both the integrity of the investigation, and to relieve any concerns, the officers involved have been reassigned to duties that do not include courthouse security. However, they are entitled to due process during this investigation, as required by law.
“DRPS remains unequivocally committed to its responsibility of providing courthouse security and will continue to work collaboratively with legal and justice partners to take any necessary action that ensures the safety, trust, and well being of those who work in and attend the Durham Region courthouse,” said the statement.
As this remains an active and ongoing investigation, further updates will be provided at the appropriate time, it added.