The province's police watchdog has found no grounds for criminal charges against a South Simcoe Police Service officer after a woman sustained a broken knee during an arrest in 2023.
Details of the Incident and Investigation
The Ontario Special Investigations Unit (SIU) concluded its probe into the arrest, which occurred in the jurisdiction served by the South Simcoe force. The investigation was triggered by the serious injury—a fractured knee—suffered by a woman during her apprehension by police.
The SIU, an independent civilian agency, investigates incidents involving police that result in serious injury, death, or allegations of sexual assault. Its director, Joseph Martino, reviewed the evidence and determined the officer's actions did not reach the threshold necessary for criminal prosecution.
SIU Director's Rationale for No Charges
In his report, Director Martino outlined the sequence of events leading to the injury. The woman was arrested in connection with an undisclosed incident. During the process of taking her into custody, a physical interaction ensued, resulting in the knee fracture.
The SIU's analysis concluded that the force used by the officer was legally justified in the circumstances. Martino found no reasonable basis to believe the officer committed a criminal offence. The report emphasizes that the SIU's mandate is strictly to assess potential criminal liability, not to conduct disciplinary or civil proceedings.
Outcome and Police Service Response
With the criminal investigation closed, the matter may now be subject to internal review by the South Simcoe Police Service regarding policies and procedures. The SIU's clearance means no criminal charges will be laid against the involved officer.
The ruling was officially published on January 3, 2026, concluding an investigation that spanned several months. The SIU has not released the identities of the woman or the officer involved, in accordance with its standard practices.
This case highlights the independent oversight mechanism for police conduct in Ontario, where the SIU operates separately from any police service to ensure impartiality in its investigations of serious incidents.
