A video on Facebook showing an arrest in Estevan over the weekend has garnered thousands of views and the attention of the Public Complaints Commission (PCC).
The commission has been requested by the Estevan Police Service to investigate a video posted on Sunday that shows two Estevan police officers trying to arrest an individual on the ground.
Paul Ladouceur, chief of police for Estevan Police, stated that the PCC is now conducting an “independent and comprehensive” investigation into the matter.
He said it’s important to have all the evidence available regarding the arrest before jumping to conclusions.
“We’re talking about a video that’s a portion of a dynamic event that we want to make sure we have all the information, all the video that’s available, be able to speak to witnesses before any conclusions can be made,” said Ladouceur.
Ladouceur mentioned that he’s not a supporter of pulling back someone from their duties unless there’s good reason to do so. However he said the officer involved that was applying force is currently off, adding they will “cross that bridge when they get there.”
The Estevan police chief also encourages the public to reach out if they ever see something they don’t feel is right.
“We are accountable to the public we serve. At the end of the day, if there is an issue of misconduct, then it needs to be addressed,” said Ladouceur.
“I don’t want to pass judgement on the actions of officers when I don’t have all the facts.”
Ladouceur mentioned that residents should not be discouraged to send evidence to any police department or the Public Complaints Commission if they witness something concerning.
