The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) is investigating a January 2024 arrest in Quesnel where a person was reportedly seriously injured while being taken into custody by the RCMP, the watchdog said in a news release.
On Jan. 6, 2024, the Mounties responded to a call about a person experiencing a mental health emergency. The person was located on Avison Avenue and officers detained them under the Mental Health Act. The person was taken to the hospital where it was determined they had suffered an injury during their interaction with the officers.
The IIO was notified in February 2025 after a woman filed a complaint with the RCMP. After the IIO reviewed medical records, they determined the injury meets the threshold for serious harm as defined by the Police Act.
There will be an investigation by the IIO to confirm details about the interaction with officers as well as the lead-up to determine whether any force used was necessary, proportionate and justified under the circumstances.
If anyone has information about the incident, the IIO asks them to contact the witness line at 1-855-446-8477 or through the contact form on the iiobc.ca website.
The IIO is an independent civilian watchdog agency for police in B.C. They investigate deaths and serious injuries that may result from officers regardless of whether or not there is an allegation of wrongdoing.
This is the second time within the last week the IIO has announced it will be investigating incidents that occurred in Quesnel during 2024.
