Statement from Chief Saunders regarding the SIU

A Statement from Chief Saunders regarding the SIU

Monday, May 2, 2016 - 3:33 PM
Corporate Communications:  416-808-7100

I’d like to offer a response to the report recently released by SIU Director Tony Loparco.

On the night of July 5, 2015, officers responded to a call for a man threatening death at 502 Gilbert Avenue. The actions of the officer that night have been fully justified by the SIU.

Like any investigation where the SIU has invoked its mandate, officers attended the scene after the shooting for the purpose of securing evidence. This is in line with Ontario Regulation 267/10 section 4, which reads:

"The Chief of Police shall ensure that, pending the SIU taking charge of the scene of the incident, the police force secures the scene in a manner consistent with all standing orders, policies and usual practice of the police force for serious incidents."

Our officers have a legal onus to fulfil this responsibility. This includes the necessity to secure video evidence.

Because of this, my officers attempted to locate and secure the video. Due to technical difficulties, they were unable to do so. They did not review the video, nor did they download the video. An officer was posted to secure the scene until technical assistance could be contacted. The SIU, in fact, downloaded the video at a later time. The SIU’s forensic examination states that no tampering took place.

In addition, the SIU had representatives on scene at this time. At no point did they question, contradict or prevent my officers from carrying out this responsibility.

I believe the SIU Director is using this opportunity to highlight his desire for a strong review of the regulations that govern his agency. This is a review the TPS strongly supports.

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Meaghan Gray, Corporate Communications, for Chief Mark Saunders