Saskatchewan’s Serious Incident Response Team has launched an investigation into an RCMP use-of-force incident on Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation.
The incident occurred early July 27 as Loon Lake RCMP officers attempted to arrest a man on outstanding warrants at a residence. Police say two men eventually came outside and were taken into custody.
During the second arrest, a 40-year-old woman became involved in a physical altercation with two officers on the front step of the home. SIRT says a second confrontation occurred between two parked vehicles, where officers used physical force and a conducted energy weapon.
RCMP initially said the incident did not meet the threshold for a SIRT investigation because no serious injury was reported. However, police formally notified SIRT the following day, and the agency accepted the case under its public-interest mandate.
A team of four SIRT investigators has been deployed to Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation. A community liaison will also be appointed.
SIRT will examine the actions of police and the circumstances surrounding the woman’s arrest. RCMP will remain responsible for investigating the conduct of the people inside the residence.
SIRT says no further information will be released while the investigation is underway. A public report is expected within 90 days of the investigation’s conclusion.