More calls for action from PAGC and FSIN following third in-custody death

“Equally concerning is the lack of transparency and public accountability. The police service is not being open about these incidents and the victims’ families and communities deserve answers.”

The incidents are under investigation by the Saskatchewan Coroner’s Service with help from other police services and independent observers from the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety to provide oversight. In a press release issued earlier this week, the PAPS acknowledged the investigative process that follows each in-custody death can be lengthy – often taking months or even years.

While the identities of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding their deaths have not been released, the FSIN and PAGC want answers from the SHA as well about its responsibility to ensure oversight is provided ‘to those in police custody suffering from drug and alcohol addictions or other underlying medical conditions.’

PAGC Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte said recommendations from past public inquests have not been taken seriously by the PAPS or the SHA.

“We will not wait two years or more for more recommendations from yet another public inquiry. As we can see, time is not on our side – drastic changes need to happen now,” Hardlotte said.

In a statement sent to paNOW, Chair of the Prince Albert Police Board Sheryl Kimbley said they support the request for an independent investigation and are committed to transparency and accountability.

“We believe that the investigation will be complete and thorough,” Kimbley said.

Response from the Minister and SHA

In an emailed statement, Minister Christine Tell said any loss of life is a tragedy, and she offered her condolences to the loved ones of those who passed away.

“While investigations like this often take longer than many would like, this time is necessary to ensure that officials can complete as fulsome a review of the circumstances as possible. It would not be appropriate or helpful for government to interfere in these investigations,” she said.

Acknowledging that it is critically important that public confidence in the ability of police to serve and protect our communities is maintained, Tell said she has engaged in discussions with the Saskatchewan Police Commission about the recent deaths in police custody.

“I understand the Commission will be conducting a review of policies and standards related to the care of people in custody. The goal of this review will be to ensure Saskatchewan police services maintain and follow best practices when they are required to hold people in custody,” she said.

Meanwhile, the SHA said in a release to paNOW that it is aware of the recent deaths in police custody in Prince Albert and extends its condolences to all families involved.

“SHA will assist with any investigation by the government, Saskatchewan Coroners Service or police services if requested,” the statement reads. “In addition, SHA can and does directly conduct critical incident reviews into deaths related to the SHA’s provision of health care services.”

“SHA’s role regarding oversight within police cells is limited to the provision of health care through contracted services for a dedicated paramedic on site. Federal funding began May 1, 2021, which allows this service to be provided 12 hours a day, seven days a week.”

The statement goes on to say that the Health Authority will continue to work to build relationships with the PAGC and FSIN.

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panews@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow

by paNOW Staff

More calls for action from PAGC and FSIN following third in-custody death

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