Ontario SIU investigations into three incidents with the Timmins police are ongoing.
Recently the provincial Special Investigations Unit changed how it is keeping the public updated on its case files.
The SIU, a civilian agency that investigates incidents involving police when there is a death, serious injury or allegations of sexual assault, is now offering a case status database, which you can find online here.
The three ongoing investigations involving the Timmins Police Service are: Feb. 3 for the officer-involved shooting death of 21-year-old Joey Knapaysweet, Feb. 5 when 62-year-old Agnes Sutherland died in hospital after being in police custody, and a June 3 incident involving a custody injury.
For the Feb. 3 incident, the SIU case status database reports that they are waiting for documentation from an external agency.
The file for the Feb. 5 investigation is under director’s review. The director’s decision is pending on the June 3 incident.
“Due to complexity or circumstances, these investigations can require a significant amount of time to complete. The length of time might be impacted by factors such as how long it took to conduct interviews and/or gather and analyze evidence. In many instances, the Unit must also await receipt of reports from outside organizations such as the Centre of Forensic Sciences or the Coroner’s Office,” reads the SIU news release about the database.
“While the SIU recognises it is important to resolve cases in a timely manner, the thoroughness of the investigation must take precedence over the length of time it takes to finish an investigation.”
