The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba is investigating the arrest of an adult male by the Winnipeg Police Service after video footage of the incident was brought forward.
According to a press release from the IIU, Winnipeg police notified the watchdog agency on Feb. 27 about an incident that occurred Feb. 12 at approximately 9:45 a.m.
Police reported that on Feb. 17, they received a voicemail from a citizen who said he had recorded video of officers arresting a man. After a follow-up call, the citizen forwarded the footage to police.
Concerns raised after video shows apparent use of force
The IIU says a review of the video confirmed it was recorded Feb. 12. The footage reportedly shows an officer standing over a male who is lying face down on the ground. A second officer approaches, kneels, and appears to strike the male in the head or shoulder area before applying handcuffs.
The man is then helped to his feet and escorted to the rear of a truck, where a search is conducted. According to the IIU, one officer is seen taking hold of the male by the hair and leading him to a marked cruiser that had arrived on scene. The officer then grips the male by the collar and belt and places him forcefully into the back seat of the cruiser.
The IIU says the arrest stems from an attempt to apprehend two individuals wanted in connection with robbery and aggravated assault.
Members of the Manitoba Integrated Violent Offender Apprehension Unit attended an apartment in the 700 block of Notre Dame Avenue on Feb. 12 to arrest a man and a woman. Police say the male was also wanted on an unlawfully-at-large warrant.
According to the release, the woman answered the door when officers knocked. During the interaction, the male allegedly attempted to flee through a rear window but was seen by police. He was later located in the 700 block of Toronto Street, where officers arrested and searched him before taking him into custody.
The civilian director of the IIU has determined it is in the public interest for the agency to investigate the matter.
Anyone with information or video footage that may assist the investigation is asked to contact the IIU toll-free at 1-844-667-6060.
