British Columbia's police oversight agency has concluded there are no grounds to recommend charges against officers involved in an arrest that left a woman injured in Duncan.
IIO Investigation Details
The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of B.C. released its findings on July 4, 2025, following a probe into the incident. The investigation was launched to determine whether the actions of police during the arrest constituted an offence under the Criminal Code.
According to the IIO, the incident occurred during an interaction between police officers and a woman in the Vancouver Island community. The encounter resulted in the woman sustaining injuries that required medical attention. The watchdog's mandate is to conduct investigations into police-related incidents involving serious harm or death, regardless of whether a complaint is filed.
Watchdog's Rationale for No Charges
After a thorough review of evidence, which typically includes witness statements, police reports, and available video footage, the IIO determined that the evidence did not meet the threshold for charges. The office stated that its chief civilian director, after reviewing the investigative file, found no reasonable grounds to believe any officer committed an offence.
The IIO's process involves a detailed analysis of whether the force used by police was reasonable and necessary under the circumstances. Their conclusion in this case indicates that the evidence did not support a case for criminal liability against the involved members.
Outcome and Next Steps
With the IIO's investigation now closed, no further action will be taken against the officers from a criminal standpoint. The findings are final under the IIO's mandate, though the agency's reports do not preclude other forms of review, such as internal disciplinary procedures or civil proceedings.
The IIO's role is strictly to assess potential criminality. Its report does not comment on potential policy breaches or conduct issues, which would fall under the jurisdiction of the involved police department's professional standards unit.
This case highlights the ongoing work of B.C.'s independent police watchdog in reviewing serious incidents across the province. The IIO's mandate is a key component of the province's police accountability framework, aiming to ensure transparent and objective investigations into police actions.
