The province's police watchdog has concluded its investigation into an incident involving a teenage boy and officers from the Waterloo Regional Police Service, finding no grounds for criminal charges.
Details of the Incident and Investigation
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) was called to examine the circumstances surrounding injuries sustained by a 16-year-old male during an arrest for shoplifting. The incident, which prompted the mandatory investigation, occurred previously, though the SIU's report was finalized and released on January 06, 2026.
According to the SIU's findings, police were responding to a reported theft at a local business. Officers located and attempted to apprehend the teenage suspect. During the interaction, the youth sustained injuries. The SIU, an independent civilian agency that investigates reports involving police where there has been death, serious injury, or allegations of sexual assault, assigned investigators to the case.
The SIU's Determination and Rationale
After reviewing the evidence, which included witness statements, police communications, and relevant documentation, the SIU Director determined that the actions of the involved police officers did not reach the threshold necessary for criminal charges. The report clears the officers of any criminal wrongdoing in connection with the teen's injuries.
The SIU stated there was no reasonable basis to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in this case. The unit's mandate is to consider whether charges, such as assault or others under the Criminal Code, are warranted. In this instance, the evidence did not support proceeding with any charges against the police.
Outcome and Police Service Response
With the SIU's investigation closed, no further action will be taken against the officers from a criminal liability standpoint. The matter is now concluded from the SIU's perspective. The Waterloo Regional Police Service typically reviews all SIU investigations for potential internal policy or training considerations, separate from the criminal findings.
This case highlights the standard procedure in Ontario when serious injuries occur during police interactions. The SIU's role is to provide civilian oversight and ensure transparency, even in cases where the final determination is that the police acted within the bounds of the law.
