Probe Underway into Salt Spring Police Shooting Incident

A police shooting in Salt Spring, St. James on Thursday that was reportedly recorded on a policeman's body camera is under investigation.

 

Residents say the man believed to be mentally ill was armed with a knife, throwing bottles and threatening people before police arrived. Upon their arrival, it's reported that the police personnel issued repeated commands for the man to drop the weapon. Attempts were also made to involve community mental health personnel but were unsuccessful. The police say the man advanced towards an officer, resulting in him being shot, disarmed, and taken to hospital. ‘

 

His condition is not known.

 

The matter is now before the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM), which has launched a probe. CVM News contacted INDECOM and was told further information will be provided at a later date.

 

In the meantime, Principal Director of the National Integrity Action, Dr Gavin Meyers, says body cameras and other accountability tools are critical in strengthening transparency and evidence-based policing, particularly in incidents involving use of force.