The province's police watchdog has ruled that the use of force by Barrie police officers during an altercation with a man in custody, which resulted in the man suffering a broken nose, was justified. The decision from the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) was released on December 16, 2025.
Details of the Custody Incident
According to the SIU report, the incident occurred while the man was being held in police custody. The altercation began when the individual became physically combative with officers. During the struggle to restrain him, an officer applied force that led to the man sustaining a fractured nose.
The SIU, which automatically investigates any incident involving police that results in serious injury, death, or allegations of sexual assault, conducted a thorough review. This included examining evidence, witness statements, and the officers' accounts.
SIU's Justification and Findings
In its ruling, the SIU director concluded that the use of force was legally justified under the circumstances. The report found that the officers' actions were a necessary and proportional response to the level of resistance and threat presented by the individual in custody.
The director determined that the officers were acting within their duties to control a volatile situation and ensure safety. No charges will be laid against the officers involved as a result of this investigation.
Context and Aftermath
This ruling brings a conclusion to an investigation that scrutinizes the delicate balance between police authority and the rights of individuals in detention. The SIU's mandate is to ensure civilian oversight and maintain public confidence in policing.
While the specific medical outcome for the man was a broken nose, classified as a serious injury under the SIU's purview, the watchdog's finding supports the officers' version of events that the force used was not excessive. The case underscores the challenging and often split-second decisions police must make in confrontational situations.
