News Releases
News Release Search
2025 News Releases
January | February | March | April | May | June
July | August | September | October | November | December
20 March, 2025
SIU Terminates Investigation as Man’s Collarbone Fractured Days Before Arrest in Barrie
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into a reported fractured left clavicle suffered by a 24-year-old man in the course of his arrest by Barrie Police Service officers last November.20 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Death in Thunder Bay
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Thunder Bay Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the death of a 39-year-old man. The man was taken to hospital after he was found in his cell in medical distress on May 28, 2024. The man died in hospital in Thunder Bay three days later.18 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Timmins Arrest
In the evening of November 17, 2024, the Timmins Police Service received a 911 call from a business about a theft in progress involving two men. Upon arriving at the scene, an officer observed the men and he pursued one of them on foot. The officer caught up to the man and a struggle ensued. The man attempted to flee again, and this time was confronted by another officer. The man was arrested and taken to hospital where he was diagnosed with a fractured jaw, a broken nose, and loose and missing teeth. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that any officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.18 March, 2025
SIU Investigating Death in Ottawa
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 42-year-old individual yesterday in Ottawa.17 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Toronto Vehicle Collision
On November 17, 2024, a 25-year-old man was seriously injured in a motor vehicle collision in Toronto. As the vehicle in which he was an occupant was being pulled over at the time by an Ontario Provincial Police officer, the SIU was notified of the incident and initiated an investigation. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the collision.17 March, 2025
SIU Continues Investigation into Hamilton Police-Involved Shooting
The province’s Special Investigations Unit continues to investigating a police-involved shooting in Hamilton that left a 30-year-old man with serious injuries. The man remains in hospital in serious, life-threatening condition.16 March, 2025
SIU Investigating Police-Involved Shooting in Hamilton
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating a police-involved shooting in Hamilton today that resulted in a man suffering serious injuries.14 March, 2025
SIU Discontinues Kingston Overdose Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into an overdose suffered by a 34-year-old man last month in Kingston.13 March, 2025
SIU Appealing for Witnesses to Highway Collision Near Ontario-Quebec Border
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a collision that occurred this morning in Bainsville.13 March, 2025
Due to No Interview with Man or Access to Medical Records, SIU Closes File into Lakeshore OPP Detachment Incident
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the hospitalization of a 35-year-old man in December.13 March, 2025
SIU Appealing for Witnesses to Mississauga Collision
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a collision that occurred yesterday in Mississauga.12 March, 2025
SIU Discontinues Investigation into Man’s Hospitalization in Simcoe
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the December hospitalization of a 30-year-old man following his arrest in Simcoe.12 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Ottawa Police-Involved Shooting
On the night of November 15, 2024, multiple 911 calls were received by the Ottawa Police Service reporting violent attacks being perpetrated by a male armed with a hatchet outside a restaurant. Officers were dispatched to the scene. When the armed man started to run towards an officer and would not heed repeated calls to drop the hatchet, the officer discharged his firearm at the man. The man, who was now on the ground, began to crawl towards the officer, with hatchet in hand. When he refused to drop the hatchet, two other officers discharged their conducted energy weapons at the man. The man was arrested and transported to hospital for treatment. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the incident.11 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Injuries in Relation to Stolen Truck Investigation in Guelph
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Halton Regional Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the concussion and fractured rib suffered by a 45-year-old man. On November 12, 2024, officers pursued and stopped a reportedly stolen U-Haul truck in the area of Highway 7 and Wellington County Road 29 in Guelph.
10 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Fatal Fall in Oshawa
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Durham Regional Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the death of a 26-year-old man. In the early hours of November 12, 2024, police received a 911 call about a man in distress on the rooftop parking garage of Lakeridge Health Oshawa.7 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Broken Cheekbone During Barrie Arrest
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Barrie Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the fractured left cheekbone suffered by a 30-year-old man. On November 16, 2024, an officer stopped a vehicle in relation to a stabbing investigation. Two males fled from the vehicle, with one holding a handgun. The officer pursued one of the men. The man ended up hiding in a bush and began to crawl out, acting on another officer’s orders, when the officer kicked him in the head. The officer dropped his weight onto him and handcuffed him.7 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Shooting Death of Man Armed with Hammer in Toronto
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Toronto Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the fatal shooting of a 34-year-old man in June 2024.7 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Broken Nose During Arrest in Burk’s Falls
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe an Ontario Provincial Police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the broken nose of a 54-year-old man in Burk’s Falls. On November 12, 2024, police were called in relation to an assault at a residence.
6 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Brain Bleed Following Fall from CEW Discharge by Peel Officer in Toronto
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Peel Regional Police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with a brain bleed suffered by a 23-year-old male in a fall from a conducted energy weapon (CEW) discharge. On November 10, 2024, officers were investigating a stolen Mercedes located at 175 Toryork Drive in Toronto. The vehicle had been carjacked by knifepoint in Mississauga.6 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Hand Broken During Arrest in Mississauga
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Peel Regional Police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the fractured right hand of a 63-year-old man during his arrest in Mississauga. On November 9, 2024, officers were called to a residence near Sombrero Way and Mavis Road, after the man reportedly assaulted a woman. The man did not follow police commands and laid his hands on an officer before he was taken to the ground by an officer. The man lifted his torso off the ground and the officer pinned his head and upper body to the roadway. Another takedown occurred when the man threatened officers and made it difficult to complete a search.5 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man Seriously Injured While in Brampton Cell
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Peel Regional Police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the fractured left orbital bone suffered by a 33-year-old man in Brampton. On November 5, 2024, the man was located using a cellphone moments after he was placed in a cell at 22 Division. Officers asked the man to provide them the phone and the man refused. Officers entered the cell to forcibly remove it. The man grabbed an officer’s collar and the officer punched the man two or three times in his chest.3 March, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into South River Arrest
In the morning of November 5, 2024, a 29-year-old man was at a gas station, 314 Highway 124, when an unmarked police cruiser pulled up to him. Two officers emerged from the cruiser and approached the vehicle, advising the man he was under arrest for a drug offence. The man accelerated away southbound on Highway 124. The officers returned to the cruiser and pursued the vehicle. Soon after, the man brought the vehicle to a stop and exited the vehicle. Following a struggle with officers, the man was arrested. He was taken to hospital where he was diagnosed with three fractured left ribs and a collapsed lung. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.3 March, 2025
SIU Investigating Discharge of Police Firearm on Walpole Island First Nation
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating after an Ontario Provincial Police officer discharged his firearm at a vehicle yesterday on Walpole Island First Nation.1 March, 2025
SIU Investigating Death of Man in Scarborough
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 53-year-old man in Scarborough.28 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Arrest in Barrie
On November 3, 2024, a 41-year-old man was arrested by police at a motel in Barrie. Following his arrest, the man was taken to hospital and diagnosed with a broken nose. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that a Barrie Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.27 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Shooting Death of Teenager in Aurora
On October 30, 2024, a 17-year-old male passed away from wounds inflicted by gunfire discharged by York Regional Police officers in Aurora. The SIU was notified of the incident and initiated an investigation, naming the four officers who fired their weapons as subject officials. The investigation is now concluded. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that any officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the teenager’s death.26 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Dog Bite Wound Suffered by Man in Vineland
In the evening of October 31, 2024, OPP officers were dispatched to a residence in Vineland to check on a man who had reportedly ingested an unknown substance and who had threatened to harm himself. Officers arrived on scene and attempted to call the 52-year-old man without success. Some time later, the man exited his residence, entered his vehicle, and drove to the property’s entrance, stopping short of the police cruisers that had gathered in the area. The man exited his vehicle and approached the police with his hands in the air. He was told to stop his advance but continued to close the distance. When he was within a few metres of the officers, a dog handler released his dog. The dog bit the man and took him to the ground. The man was taken to hospital and treated for a serious dog bite wound to the inner right thigh. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.24 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Injury in Sudbury
In the evening of October 22, 2024, a Greater Sudbury Police Service officer arrested a 23-year-old man without incident in Sudbury. The arrest followed a complaint to police that day that the man had pointed a handgun at a female. The officer handcuffed the man behind the back. The man explained that he had Tourette Syndrome and might involuntarily jolt or twitch. Following his remand in custody at jail, the man told staff that his left wrist hurt. He was transported to hospital where he was diagnosed with a fractured wrist. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s injury.23 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Death in Huntsville
In the evening of October 25, 2024, the OPP received 911 calls from residents in an area of Huntsville reporting the sound of multiple gunshots. At about 9 p.m., a man contacted the OPP and indicated he had shot dead two family members at their home. Officers were dispatched to the home, and shortly after were able to reach the 52-year-old man by phone. He refused their requests that he exit the home and indicated he would soon take his own life. He told police that he was armed with a rifle and handguns. A drone was sent in to make observations inside the residence. The drone located two deceased women and a deceased dog, and the man was located deceased in the basement with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that the acting critical incident commander committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s death.22 February, 2025
SIU Investigating Discharge of ARWEN at Man in Sioux Lookout
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the discharge of an Anti-Riot Weapon EnField (ARWEN) at a 29-year-old man yesterday in Sioux Lookout.21 February, 2025
Tackle of Man Deemed Necessary for Safe Apprehension; SIU Closes St. Catharines Investigation
In the afternoon of October 25, 2024, Niagara Regional Police Service officers were dispatched to a shopping plaza in St. Catharines following 911 calls of a man causing a disturbance – he was acting strangely, swinging his cane and damaging a vehicle. Upon learning that the man had left and gone to his apartment, officers made their way there. The man let the officers into his residence. When the officers mentioned a visit to the hospital, the man became belligerent and made his way to the balcony. Concerned that the man intended to do himself harm, an officer tackled the man and a struggle ensued. The officers were eventually able to handcuff the man. The man was taken to hospital, diagnosed with a fractured vertebra, and admitted for psychiatric examination. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the 50-year-old man’s arrest and injury.20 February, 2025
SIU Appealing for Witnesses to Cornwall Collision
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is appealing for witnesses to a collision that occurred last month in Cornwall.19 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Broken Jaw in Mississauga Arrest
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Peel Regional Police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the arrest and serious injury of a 23-year-old man in Mississauga. On October 21, 2024, officers attempted to stop the man, who was driving a Mercedes, for having dark window tint in the area of Hurontario Street and Matheson Boulevard.19 February, 2025
Investigation into Youth’s Reported Broken Hand During North York Arrest Discontinued Due to Lack of Statement
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into an apparent fracture suffered by a 16-year-old boy in the course of his arrest by Toronto Police Service officers last fall in North York.19 February, 2025
Former London Police Officer Charged with Historical Sexual Assault Offences
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has reasonable grounds to believe a former officer with London Police Service committed criminal offences in the 1980s and 1990s.18 February, 2025
Investigation into Man’s Arrest and Injury in Brantford Discontinued as Special Constables Out of Jurisdiction
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into a broken rib suffered by a 48-year-old man last October.18 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Broken Back in Fall from Second Floor of Mississauga Home
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Peel Regional Police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the fractured back suffered by a 34-year-old man in Mississauga. On October 21, 2024, officers were called to a home in the area of Winston Churchill Boulevard and Highway 403 for a report of a home invasion and shooting.14 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Male Youth’s Arrest and Broken Hand in Toronto
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Toronto Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the fractured hand suffered by a 16-year-old male. On October 20, 2024, officers sought to arrest the male at a bus shelter at Kingston Road and Lawrence Avenue East in relation to a robbery investigation.14 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man Seriously Injured During St. Catharines Arrest
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Niagara Regional Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the serious injury suffered by a 60-year-old man. On October 17, 2024, officers went to an apartment the area of Bloomfield Avenue and Dundonald Street to execute warrants in effect for the man’s arrest. He refused to surrender.14 February, 2025
SIU Charges Toronto Police Officer with Aggravated Assault
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has reasonable grounds to believe a Toronto Police Service officer committed a criminal offence last summer.13 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Fractured Vertebrae During Arrest by Officers in York Region
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a York Regional Police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the serious injury of a 36-year-old man in King. In the early morning of October 16, 2024, a team of officers working to combat auto theft in York Region converged on a Mazda at the intersection of Jane Street and Lloydtown-Aurora Road.13 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Broken Ankle After Motorcycle Crash in Ajax
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe any police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with a 22-year-old man seriously injured after a motorcycle collision in Ajax. On October 19, 2024, the man went through a red light and crashed his motorcycle at the intersection of Rossland Road West and Ravenscroft Road. An off-duty Toronto Police Service officer witnessed the collision and tried to help. Shortly after, the man attempted to flee the scene.12 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Brantford ARWEN Discharge
In the afternoon of October 15, 2024, Brantford Police Service officers attended a residence after a member of the sheriff’s office reported that while attempting to evict a man from an apartment, the man threatened her with death. Officers, while outside of the apartment, were also threatened with death by the 51-year-old man from inside the apartment. Upon opening the door, officers observed the man with an axe. He was unreceptive to negotiations, which continued for about four hours. At one point, an officer was able to grab hold of the man through the opening in the door. A struggle ensued. From the area of the door’s threshold, an officer fired his Anti-Riot Weapon Enfield (ARWEN) at the man five times. The man was arrested and transported to hospital where he was diagnosed with a laceration to the upper right shoulder and a fracture of the right clavicle. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the use of the ARWEN.12 February, 2025
No Criminal Charges to Issue in Relation to Orangeville Arrest of Man
In the early afternoon, Ontario Provincial Police officers located a man behind a business in Orangeville. Officers had been looking for him after calls to police reporting that he had threatened staff at a hospital and residence and assaulted two persons in and around a convenience store. The 39-year-old man fled on foot but hadn’t travelled very far when one of the officers deployed a conducted energy weapon, causing the man to fall and strike his head and right shoulder on the pavement. After a struggle, in which the officer discharged his CEW several more times, the man was handcuffed and taken into custody. He was transported to hospital and diagnosed with fractures of the right jawbone and clavicle, an epidural hematoma, and a left temporal lobe hemorrhagic contusion. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.12 February, 2025
SIU Investigating Death of Man in York Police Custody in Richmond Hill
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 33-year-old man early this morning in Richmond Hill.11 February, 2025
SIU Investigating Death of Woman in Custody of Hamilton Police
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 31-year-old woman early this morning while in Hamilton Police Service custody.10 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Woman’s Sault Ste. Marie Arrest
In the afternoon of October 13, 2024, Sault Ste Marie Police Service officers were dispatched to a residence with respect to a reported domestic disturbance. Upon arriving at the scene officers placed themselves between the two women to keep them separated. The officers then took hold of the aggressor, who reacted by striking them each in the face. The officers were able to seat the 24-year-old woman on the sidewalk while they waited for assistance to arrive. The woman was handcuffed behind her back. Paramedics transported the woman to hospital where she was treated for a fracture of the right arm. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the woman’s arrest and injury.9 February, 2025
SIU Investigating Less-Lethal Firearm Discharge at Teen in Brampton; Teen Uninjured
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating after two Peel Regional Police Service officers discharged less-lethal firearms at a 15-year-old male in Brampton early this morning.
8 February, 2025
SIU Charges Toronto Police Officer in Relation to Collision in Whitby
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has reasonable grounds to believe a Toronto Police Service officer committed criminal offences in relation to a collision in the course of an arrest in Whitby last June.7 February, 2025
Notice of Correction to Director’s Report
Please be advised the Director’s Report for case 24-PCI-427, published on February 3, has been amended to correct an error.7 February, 2025
SIU Discontinues Investigation into Woman’s Fentanyl Overdose in St. Thomas Cell
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into a 27-year-old woman who was admitted to hospital for a drug overdose while in Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) custody in Elgin County last October.6 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Woman Injured During Apprehension in Brantford
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Brantford Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with serious injuries suffered by a 58-year-old woman. On October 10, 2024, officers attempted to apprehend the woman under the Mental Health Act at her residence in the area of Terrace Hill Street and St. Paul Avenue.6 February, 2025
SIU Terminates Investigation into Man’s Injury from Fall While Fleeing Windsor Police Officers
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into a 47-year-old man’s broken knee while attempting to flee officers in Windsor.5 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man Punched by Officer During Protest in Toronto
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Toronto Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with a broken nose suffered by a 29-year-old man after he was punched during a protest outside the U.S. Consulate last summer.5 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Eye Injury After CEW Discharge During Brantford Arrest
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Brantford Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with a 52-year-old man seriously injured during his arrest in Brantford in 2022. The SIU began investigating on October 8, 2024, after the Brantford Police Service notified the Unit of information they recently received of the incident.5 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Drug Overdose in Barrie
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Barrie Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with an overdose suffered by a 61-year-old man. As officers were at the man’s property seeking to arrest him at the time, the SIU was notified and investigated.4 February, 2025
As Officer Did Nothing to Cause or Contribute to Collision Between Civilian Vehicle and Pedestrian, SIU Discontinues Mississauga Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury suffered by a 26-year-old man in October in Mississauga.4 February, 2025
SIU Terminates Collision Investigation in Brantford
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury suffered by a 53-year-old man in October in Brantford.3 February, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Mississauga Arrest
On October 6, 2024, a 23-year-old man was seriously injured in Mississauga in the course of his arrest by Peel Regional Police officers. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.3 February, 2025
No Charges to Issue in Relation to Tecumseh Arrest of Man
In the late afternoon of October 5, 2024, Ontario Provincial Police officers were dispatched to a noise complaint for a loud party at a residence in Tecumseh. Outside of the residence, one of the officers became involved in an interaction with a 51-year-old man. The man was arrested. The following day, the man attended hospital where he was diagnosed with a displaced right proximal ulna fracture. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.3 February, 2025
As Man Was Not Seriously Injured in Collision, SIU Terminates Fort Erie Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into an incident that occurred last month in Fort Erie.3 February, 2025
Woman’s Injury a Result of Her Kicking Cell Door; SIU Discontinues Guelph Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury suffered by a 34-year-old woman in November in Guelph.3 February, 2025
Due to Man’s Refusal to be Interviewed or Provide Medical Records, SIU Discontinues Toronto Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the arrest of a 36-year-old man in September in Toronto.31 January, 2025
No Basis to Proceed with Charges in Connection to Thunder Bay Arrest
On October 4, 2024, a 42-year-old man was seriously injured while in the custody of the Thunder Bay Police Service. The SIU was notified of the incident and initiated an investigation. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.31 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Garson Arrest
In the early morning of October 13, 2024, Greater Sudbury Police Service officers were dispatched to an address in Garson after receiving a call about a disturbance involving a man. The man was described as having had mental health issues in the past and had reportedly damaged property and was not acting himself. Officers encountered the 37-year-old man and an interaction ensued. When one officer deployed his conducted energy weapon, the man fell forward and struck his face on the floor, resulting in a broken nose. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.30 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Toronto Officer’s Gunfire at Man
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Toronto Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with shooting his gun at a 21-year-old man during a robbery investigation. On Oct. 2, 2024, officers were investigating a Honda Civic in an underground parkade in the area of Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue East as it was believed to have been involved in robberies.29 January, 2025
Man’s Injuries were Self-inflicted; SIU Discontinues Coldwater Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injuries suffered by a 61-year-old man in October in Coldwater.29 January, 2025
SIU Terminates Walkerton Investigation; Man’s Apparent Injury a Result of Punching Cell Wall
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury suffered by a 31-year-old man in October while lodged in an OPP Walkerton cell.28 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Arrest of Man at Pickering Home
On September 29, 2024, a 26-year-old man was seriously injured in the course of his arrest by Durham Regional Police Service officers in Pickering. The SIU was notified of the incident and initiated an investigation. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.27 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Broken Forearm During Arrest While Running From Officer in Hamilton
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Hamilton Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with a 31-year-old man diagnosed with a broken forearm. On September 28, 2024, an officer was on patrol in a marked cruiser when he approached a stopped vehicle in the area of West Avenue North that he believed recently fled from police. While it was not the vehicle in question, it too turned out to be stolen. The occupants of the vehicle fled and the officer ran after the driver, tackling him to the ground.24 January, 2025
SIU Terminates Investigation into Man’s Injury in Minibike Collision in Norfolk County
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, terminated an investigation into a fractured left wrist suffered by a 22-year-old man in a collision in Port Dover. On October 9, 2024, the Ontario Provincial Police reported that a motorcyclist was seriously injured in a collision following an effort by an OPP cruiser to stop his minibike.23 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Teen Injured in Toronto Arrest
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe two Toronto Police Service officers committed a criminal offence in connection with the broken right hand suffered by a 16-year-old male. On August 22, 2024, officers detained the teen for investigation of his involvement in a drug offence. This came after the young person was at a gas station at Sheppard Avenue East and Morningside Avenue with another individual, who reportedly conducted a drug deal with an undercover officer.22 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Less-Lethal Shotgun Discharge at Woman in Toronto
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Toronto Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with firing a less-lethal shotgun at a 38-year-old woman in an apartment in Toronto. On September 25, 2024, the woman called police to report she had a knife and intended to harm herself. Officers went to her apartment near Eglinton Avenue West and Kipling Avenue where they attempted to negotiate with her while she was seen holding the knife at her neck and stomach. An officer fired a bean bag round at the woman, though it did not strike her. The woman dropped the knife and she was apprehended under the Mental Health Act. She was not seriously injured.
22 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Woman Seriously Injured During Arrest in London
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a London Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the serious injury of a 43-year-old woman. On September 24, 2024, police were called to assist paramedics in relation to a woman in distress at an apartment in the area of Colborne and King Streets.22 January, 2025
SIU Investigating Death of Woman After Fatal Fall in Toronto
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 29-year-old woman early this morning.20 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into ARWEN Discharge at Teenager in Oshawa
On September 22, 2024, Durham Regional Police Service officers were dispatched to a home in Oshawa following a call to police regarding a domestic disturbance. Upon arriving, officers attempted to speak to a 15-year-old male who had barricaded himself inside his bedroom. A mental health unit consisting of an officer and nurse arrived to assist. After not hearing from the teenager for some time, officers decided to enter the room. As they entered, the teenager threw a metal pole in the direction of the officers. One officer discharged a conducted energy weapon (CEW) and another fired an Anti-Riot Weapon Enfield (ARWEN). The teenager was eventually taken into custody. He was not struck as a result of the ARWEN discharge, and he did not serious any serious injury. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the use of his ARWEN against the man.20 January, 2025
SIU Terminates Toronto Investigation into Man’s Fall from Apartment Balcony
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury suffered by a 42-year-old man in September in Toronto.18 January, 2025
SIU Investigating Police-Involved Shooting in Camden East
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding a police-involved shooting that occurred last night in Camden East, resulting in a 41-year-old man suffering serious injuries.18 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Firearm Discharge by Officer at Vehicle in Moonbeam
In the evening of September 20, 2024, the OPP received a 911 call reporting a domestic disturbance, and that one of the parties had fled the scene in a Jeep heading west on Highway 11. The Jeep was located, and officers attempted to stop it. In the area of a construction zone, a police vehicle ahead of the Jeep came to a stop, causing the Jeep to do the same. The Jeep driver backed into a cruiser, and then traveled forward in an attempt to drive through the opening between a guard rail and the driver’s side door of another cruiser. The officer in this cruiser fired six shots at the Jeep. The man was not struck. He exited the vehicle and fled the scene, but was arrested the following day. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the shooting.18 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Acton Fall Fair Incident
In the evening of September 20, 2024, Halton Regional Police Service officers who were working a paid-duty assignment at the Acton Fall Fair were alerted to an altercation involving two men in the parking lot. Officers moved to separate the men. When one of the men either pushed or punched an officer, that officer reacted by punching the man in the face. The 54-year-old man fell, struck his head and lost consciousness. He was transported to hospital and diagnosed with a skull fracture and brain bleed. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s injury.17 January, 2025
SIU Charges Two Durham Regional Police Service Officers in Relation to Fatal Whitby Highway Collision
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has reasonable grounds to believe two Durham Regional Police Service officers committed criminal offences in relation to a fatal multi-vehicle collision that occurred on April 29, 2024.
17 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Toronto Investigation into Man’s Serious Injuries Suffered after Fall from Height
On September 20, 2024, a 28-year-old man suffered multiple injuries, including facial and rib fractures, internal bleeding, and permanent brain damage, after he fell from a retaining wall. As he was being pursued on foot by Toronto Police Service officers at the time, the SIU was notified of the incident and initiated an investigation. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s serious injuries.17 January, 2025
No Basis to Charge Officer in Relation to Kitchener Arrest
In the evening of September 21, 2024, Waterloo Regional Police Service officers were dispatched to a Kitchener residence after an Uber driver reported that he had been assaulted by a male while making an alcohol delivery to the male’s address. In the course of officers attempting to arrest the 49-year-old male, the male suffered a brain bleed. The SIU initiated an investigation. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.
16 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Arrest of Man in Toronto
On September 17, 2024, a 35-year-old man suffered a broken nose in the course of his arrest by Toronto Police Service officers. The SIU was notified of the incident and initiated an investigation The investigation is now concluded. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injury.15 January, 2025
Man Alone was Responsible for Injury in Sudbury Cell; SIU Discontinues Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury suffered by a 24-year-old man in September in Sudbury.14 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Fatal Fall from Etobicoke Apartment Balcony
On September 16, 2024, a 21-year-old man passed away, the result of injuries incurred in a fall from height. As York Regional Police officers were attempting to arrest him at the time, the SIU was notified of the incident and initiated an investigation. The investigation is now concluded. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that any officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s death.
14 January, 2025
Injury Incurred Prior to Police Arrival; SIU Discontinues Mississauga Investigation
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into the serious injury suffered by a 19-year-old male in September in Mississauga.13 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Male, 15, Injured During Pursuit in Hamilton
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Hamilton Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the seriously injury of a 15-year-old male in a collision during a pursuit in Hamilton.13 January, 2025
SIU Investigating Death of Woman in Toronto
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 44-year-old woman early this morning in Toronto.10 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Broken Foot After Arrest in Timmins
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Timmins Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with a broken left foot suffered by a 31-year-old man during his arrest in Timmins last September.9 January, 2025
SIU Terminates Investigation Following Motorcycle Collision in Port Colborne
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has terminated an investigation into a collision between two 40-year-old male motorcyclists in Port Colborne.
8 January, 2025
SIU Investigating after Woman has Fatal Fall from Whitby Apartment Balcony
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a woman this morning in Whitby.8 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man Struck with Less-Lethal Firearm Round in Brantford
The Special Investigations Unit found no reasonable grounds to believe a Brantford Police Service officer committed a criminal offence in connection with shooting an Anti-Riot Weapon Enfield (ARWEN) at a 33-year-old man. The man was not injured. On September 12, 2024, officers were called to an apartment near Salisbury Avenue and Erie Avenue in Brantford. They sought to arrest the man after they had reason to believe the man assaulted another male with a weapon.8 January, 2025
Former Toronto Police Officer Charged with Historical Sexual Offence
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), Joseph Martino, has reasonable grounds to believe a former officer with Toronto Police Service committed a criminal offence between 1981 and 1982.3 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Mississauga Arrest
In the evening of September 4, 2024, Peel Regional Police received 911 calls from citizens reporting a man behaving strangely in the area of Cliff Road North and Central Parkway East. He was variously yelling, lying on the roadway, and seemingly hallucinating. Officers arrived on scene and attempted to calm the man pending the arrival of paramedics. The man fled on foot, entering the rear yard of a residence. The man was arrested. While being escorted out of the rear yard, the man fell forward, striking his face on the ground and breaking his nose. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that any officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the 27-year-old man’s arrest and injury.2 January, 2025
SIU Closes File Involving Durham Regional Police Service Officers
On September 3, 2024, a 36-year-old man lapsed into medical distress while in the custody of the Durham Regional Police Service. The SIU was notified of the incident and initiated an investigation. Three officers were recognized as the officers with primary responsibility for the care of the man during his time in custody and were identified as subject officials. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that any of the officers committed a criminal offence in connection with the medical condition of the man.2 January, 2025
SIU Concludes Investigation into Man’s Arrest at Vaughan Cannabis Dispensary
In the morning of September 4, 2024, York Regional Police officers attended the site of an illegal cannabis dispensary in Vaughan to arrest anyone found inside. When executing a search warrant on the premises the previous night, officers had posted notices that entry was prohibited and would constitute the offence of ‘break and enter’ under the Criminal Code. Officers located a man and woman inside. The woman was taken into custody without incident. Following an altercation, the man was arrested. At hospital, he was diagnosed with a fracture of the anterior wall of the right maxillary sinus and a broken nose. On his assessment of the evidence, SIU Director Joseph Martino determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the 21-year-old man’s arrest and injuries.2 January, 2025