The first civilian-led inquiry office in B.C. began operations Monday, presenting a new way for investigating complaints against police.
The Independent Investigations Office of BC consists of four teams staffed with investigators who are both former police officers and civilians, headed by Richard Rosenthal.
B.C.’s Justice Minister Shirley Bond called the day “historic,” and explained the office will operate at arms-length from government.
She said the new office is an important way of maintaining public faith in police.
“Trust in the integrity of policing services is fundamental in a democratic society,” she said.
“However, occasionally there are incidents that challenge the public’s confidence. Such incidents have occurred Canada, and sadly in British Columbia.”
One high-profile incident was the 2007 death of Robert Dziekanski, who was stunned several times by a Taser during a confrontation with RCMP at Vancouver International Airport.
Rosenthal said his goals are to make sure investigations are fair, timely and transparent.
If he determines that a police officer may have committed a criminal offence, the case will be submitted to Crown to decide whether or not criminal charges should be laid, he said.
“My job however, will be that if I conclude that an officer did not commit a criminal act, that I will close out the case and I will publicly report on the reasons why,” Rosenthal added.
Half of the investigators from the new office are former police officers while the other half are civilians.
Rosenthal said none of the former police officers have worked in B.C. in the last five years.
