Ontario's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has concluded its probe into rib fractures sustained by a 32-year-old man while in the custody of the Huron Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), clearing officers of any criminal wrongdoing.
Incident Details
The incident occurred on April 15, 2026, when officers arrested the man following a disturbance in Huron County. During the arrest, the man was taken to the ground and handcuffed. He later complained of chest pain and was transported to hospital, where X-rays revealed fractures to two ribs.
The SIU, which investigates incidents involving police that result in serious injury or death, assigned three investigators and two forensic investigators to the case. They interviewed five witness officers and reviewed police communications and medical records.
SIU Findings
SIU Director Joseph Martino determined that the force used by officers was reasonable and proportionate given the circumstances. "The evidence indicates that the subject was actively resisting arrest and that the officers used necessary force to gain control," Martino said in a statement. "There are no reasonable grounds to believe that any officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man's injuries."
The SIU noted that the man had a history of mental health issues and was under the influence of drugs at the time of the arrest, which may have contributed to his agitated state.
Impact and Reaction
The man, whose name has not been released, has since been released from hospital and is recovering at home. His family could not be reached for comment.
The Huron OPP declined to comment on the SIU's findings, citing the ongoing internal review of the arrest procedures. The OPP has implemented new training for officers on de-escalation techniques and handling individuals with mental health issues.
