The independent watchdog overseeing law enforcement in British Columbia has determined that the actions of two Surrey police officers in a fatal shooting last January were deemed justified and lawful. The incident occurred at a Corrections Canada halfway house where the officers responded to a parole violation report. Upon entering the man’s unit, who had a history of violence, he confronted them with a knife, leading to the use of lethal force by the officers.
Chief Civilian Director Jessica Berglund’s report highlighted that the man was considered a high-risk offender with a propensity for self-harm and violence. Despite officers’ attempts to defuse the situation, the man refused to comply and charged at them with the knife, resulting in the use of pistols by two officers, ultimately leading to the man’s death.
The report emphasized the officers’ belief that the use of lethal force was necessary for their protection and that of civilian staff present. The evidence, including witness statements and physical items recovered from the scene, supported the officers’ actions as justified and lawful.
The investigation also included input from multiple civilian witnesses, paramedics, police officers, and various forms of evidence such as 911 calls and security footage. Chief Civilian Director Berglund concluded that there were no reasonable grounds to suggest any officer had committed an offense, and the case would not be referred to Crown prosecutors for further charges.