The Saskatchewan RCMP has welcomed the announcement that the Civilian Review and Complaints Commission has initiated a public interest investigation into the RCMP’s criminal investigation into the death of Colten Boushie and the events that followed.
A release from the police force says, “The RCMP supports this independent, civilian review process and is committed to cooperating fully with the investigation. Maintaining public trust and confidence is critical to providing an effective police service. We look forward to the process addressing any uncertainty or outstanding questions regarding our role in this matter.”
The release added that, in light of the CRCC investigation being initiated and in order to preserve the integrity of the investigation, it would be inappropriate for the RCMP to comment further.
The RCMP’s release comes after the announcement by the Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the RCMP that it has initiated a complaint and a public interest investigation into the RCMP’s investigation of the Aug. 9, 2016, death of Colten Boushie and the events that followed.
The CRCC, at the request of the Boushie family, is also conducting a review and further investigation into the RCMP’s disposition of their initial public complaint filed following the death of Colten Boushie.
“In the course of our review and our ongoing monitoring of events related to this tragic incident, it has become apparent that additional matters related to the conduct of RCMP members involved need to be examined. As such, I am satisfied that it is in the public interest to launch an independent investigation into this matter,” said Guy Bujold, the Acting Chairperson Tuesday.
The CRCC will independently investigate the conduct of the members involved in this matter and whether their actions followed RCMP policy, practice and training. The CRCC will make findings and recommendations to address any deficiencies in member conduct as well as RCMP policies, procedures, training and guidelines.
