It's unknown how long the investigation by the Estevan Police Service will take. (file photo/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

Police Investigation

Estevan Police Service to conduct investigation into La Loche RCMP incident

May 10, 2019 | 3:19 PM

The Estevan Police Service is launching an investigation in regards to an incident last month between La Loche RCMP and a member of the public.

According to an RCMP news release, La Loche RCMP witnessed an adult male consuming alcohol while sitting outside a licensed establishment. Officers made the decision to arrest the man for illegal consumption and being intoxicated in a public place. Police stated the man resisted arrest and was taken into custody in front of several other members of the community.

The man was transported to the La Loche RCMP detachment for several hours before he was transported to the La Loche Hospital after he complained of pain in his lower body. He was then transported to a hospital in Saskatoon where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries. The man has since arrived back in La Loche and was released from care.

“As a result of this incident, on May 2, 2019, the Saskatchewan RCMP requested an independent investigation be conducted by the Estevan Police Service,” the news release stated. “Additionally, an independent observer has been assigned by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Justice. Members of the Saskatchewan RCMP Senior Management Team met with local officials in La Loche on May 7, 2019 to discuss concerns raised by the community as a result of this incident and will continue to keep local officials informed.”

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La Loche Mayor Robert St. Pierre told larongeNOW he expects the Estevan Police Service to be in the northern community Sunday to begin an investigation, which will determine the circumstances surrounding the adult male’s injuries. St. Pierre stated the recent incident is just one in recent weeks where the public have had questionable experiences with the RCMP.

“We had three separate incidents that kind of happened all at the same time, which just draws more attention to it, especially when there’s Facebook and social media involved,” St. Pierre said. “We’ve been assured these are isolated incidents and there is some correctional action happening.”

St. Pierre mentioned an incident last week where several members of the RCMP were captured on video storming a residence and telling occupants to get down. During the commotion, St. Pierre said it sounded as though a female member said “f—king savages.” He added the video is being sent to Ontario for testing to determine exactly what was said.

“Of course, the language used was inappropriate and inexcusable,” St. Pierre said. “I will not tolerate or condone this type of service from the RCMP.”

As for the investigation by the Estevan Police Service, he said he’ll wait to see what happens but added there are options available if he’s unhappy with the findings. It’s unknown exactly how long it will take before the investigation reaches an end.

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno