News Release

News Release

SIU to Review Evidence in 2003 Peel Custody Injury

Case Number: 03-OCI-031   

Other News Releases Related to Case 03-OCI-031

Peel Region Police Officer Charged

Mississauga (2 July, 2010) --- On March 31, 2003, the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) was notified of a serious injury to Hoang Quang Tran while in the custody of officers from the Peel Regional Police Service (PRPS) . An investigation ensued, which culminated in a conclusion by a former SIU Director that no reasonable grounds existed to charge the involved subject officers.

On June 30, 2010, the Ontario Court of Appeal released its decision in R. v. Tran et al. In its reasons, the appellate court referred to the 'gratuitous beating' of Mr. Tran by Peel Regional police officers after his arrest in 2003. The decision went on to comment that the only action taken at the time was an SIU investigation in 2003 that led to no charges. Epstein J.A. for the unanimous court stated, "It is difficult to understand why or how those responsible for investigating the incident could continue to maintain there are no reasonable grounds to proceed." On the basis of these comments, current SIU Director, Ian Scott, intends to review the evidence called before the trial judge relevant to this issue with a view to determining whether this matter ought to be reopened.

If you or someone you know has been negatively affected by an incident under SIU investigation and would like support, the Affected Persons Program is here to help. You can reach us at 1-877-641-1897. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7, every day of the year.

The SIU is an independent government agency that investigates the conduct of officials (municipal, regional and provincial police officers, police officers with the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, special constables with the Niagara Parks Commission and peace officers with the Legislative Protective Service) that may have resulted in death, serious injury, sexual assault and/or the discharge of a firearm at a person. All investigations are conducted by SIU investigators who are civilians. Under the Special Investigations Unit Act, the Director of the SIU must

  • consider whether the official has committed a criminal offence in connection with the incident under investigation
  • depending on the evidence, cause a criminal charge to be laid against the official where grounds exist for doing so, or close the file without any charges being laid
  • publicly report the results of its investigations