The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has investigated an incident concerning the Manitoba First Nations Police Service (MFNPS) in Sandy Bay First Nation.
The incident occurred during an arrest in which a police dog bit a man who was a suspect.
On September 27, 2023, the Manitoba First Nations Police Service informed the IIU about an incident on September 26.
According to the report, authorities spotted a truck parked outside a residence known for drug trafficking. The license plate did not match the vehicle and was expired. When officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the truck failed to pull over, and a brief pursuit ensued.
The occupants of the truck were observed behaving suspiciously, leading officers to believe they may be attempting to conceal a weapon or illegal substances. The pursuit was eventually halted due to public safety concerns.
The abandoned vehicle was later found on a trail, and a police dog was deployed to track the suspects, who were located in a field. During the arrest, the suspect sustained a dog bite and received outpatient treatment at Portage District General Hospital for a wound on his calf.
After careful consideration, the civilian director determined that the subject officer's use of the police dog was justified. Consequently, no charges are recommended against the officer. The IIU investigation has been concluded, and the matter is now closed.
The details of the investigation were initially disclosed on October 3, 2023.