Durham Regional Police Refer Lawyer Assault Allegations to York Police for Criminal Investigation
Durham regional police have taken a significant step in response to allegations of assault against a lawyer at an Oshawa, Ont., courthouse. Sudine Riley’s claims of misconduct have escalated into potential criminal offenses, prompting the police force to refer the matter to the York regional police for a criminal investigation.
According to a statement released by the police, the incident involving Riley took a disturbing turn when she was allegedly physically harmed by Durham police officers during an interrogation. Riley’s counsel, Neha Chugh, described a harrowing scene where officers reportedly caused injuries to her client, including leaving her bleeding and swollen. The situation escalated further as Riley, a Black woman, had her head scarf forcefully removed before being charged with trespassing, a charge she plans to contest in court.
The gravity of the allegations has triggered widespread calls for an independent investigation from legal organizations like the Canadian Bar Association. However, the province’s police watchdog has declined to intervene at this point, leaving the onus on external agencies to pursue justice in this matter.
In response to the escalating controversy, the Durham Regional Police Association has pledged a thorough external review of the incident, vowing to support its officers and seek clarity through an unbiased investigation.
Keyphrase: lawyer assault allegations