Cops Trying to Prevent an OD Won’t Face SIU Reprisal

Queen’s Park is making it so that officers who try to stop an overdose won’t face an SIU investigation after the fact.

The PC government announced today, it is changing up the regulations, now allowing officers to carry and administer naloxone without fear of facing a criminal investigation.

“No one should face unfair repercussions just because they are doing their job and trying to save a life,” said Sylvia Jones, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services. “This amendment will enable police officers to carry out their duties without fear of facing a criminal investigation, but more importantly, it will also help save countless lives.”

Previously, if they had to dose someone who was OD’ing, the police service would have to automatically inform the Special Investigations Unit. Firefighters and paramedics who also carry naloxone are not subject to the same requirements.

“We strongly support oversight of policing in Ontario. The SIU’s mandate in cases where our officers’ use of force may result in serious injury or death is incredibly important. However, deploying a potentially life-saving drug clearly should not be viewed by the SIU in the same vein as use-of-force.” said Barrie Police Chief Kimberley Greenwood, who also serves as President of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police.