Ontario Lawyer Allegedly Assaulted by Police at Oshawa Courthouse
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) of Ontario, responsible for investigating incidents involving police officers, has announced that it is not currently looking into allegations of an assault on a lawyer at an Oshawa courthouse.
The SIU stated that it was informed about the incident by the Durham Regional Police but has not initiated an investigation “at this time.” The unit’s mandate covers cases where officers cause serious injuries, deaths, allegations of sexual assault, or discharge their firearms at individuals.
According to a statement from Sudine Riley’s lawyer, Neha Chugh, the defence attorney was reportedly left injured and swollen after being assaulted by Durham police officers at the courthouse. Chugh claimed that officers forcefully handled Riley, including slamming her head into a desk, kneeling on her back and neck, and dragging her to the cells with excessive force.
Allegations of racial discrimination were also raised as Riley, who is Black, had her head scarf torn off and her skirt lifted during the incident.
The Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) expressed deep concern over the reported use of force against Riley, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of legal professionals in courtrooms.
Durham Regional Police assured that they are treating the allegations seriously and are actively gathering evidence to investigate the matter thoroughly. Legal organizations, such as the Criminal Lawyers’ Association, have urged for an independent inquiry into the incident to ensure a safe working environment for lawyers in Ontario’s courthouses.
Keyphrase: Oshawa courthouse assault