York Police Investigate Alleged Lawyer Assault by Officers at Oshawa Courthouse
Recent allegations of police misconduct at the Oshawa courthouse are now under investigation. Durham regional police have referred the case to York regional police. This development came after claims of an assault on a lawyer named Sudine Riley.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred last Friday while Riley was working in an interview room. According to her lawyer, Neha Chugh, officers from Durham police allegedly used excessive force by slamming Riley’s head into a desk, leaving her with visible injuries.
- Riley was left bleeding and swollen.
- Officers allegedly knelt on her back and neck.
- She was handcuffed and dragged out of the room.
- Riley’s head scarf was reportedly ripped off.
- She faces charges of trespassing, which she intends to contest.
Responses and Calls for Investigation
This incident has generated significant concern among legal organizations. The Canadian Bar Association has called for an independent investigation into the matter. However, the province’s police watchdog, the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), has stated that it will not pursue this investigation at present.
The SIU clarified that its jurisdiction is limited to cases involving serious injuries, deaths, or sexual assault allegations. Following the allegations, the Durham police indicated that they had informed the Law Enforcement Complaints Agency, and the involved officers have been reassigned away from courthouse security tasks.
Statements from Police Associations
In a statement released on Friday, the Durham Regional Police Association expressed its commitment to a full review of the situation by an independent agency. President Andrew Tummonds emphasized that the association stands firmly with its officers amid public scrutiny.
Tummonds also highlighted the importance of ensuring a thorough investigation that focuses on factual evidence rather than public opinion. He stated that the association’s members deserve fair consideration throughout this process.
The case remains ongoing as the York regional police continue their criminal investigation into the alleged assault of lawyer Sudine Riley at the Oshawa courthouse.
