Durham Region officers accused of assaulting Black lawyer at Oshawa courthouse

• Durham Region officers allegedly assaulted lawyer Sudine Riley at Oshawa courthouse on January 23rd.
• York Regional Police investigation found no grounds to lay charges against officers.
• Case referred to Law Enforcement Complaints Agency for assessment of potential misconduct.
• Incident sparked calls for independent investigation from the Criminal Lawyers' Association.

The incident has raised concerns about police accountability and the need for transparency in such investigations.

On January 23rd of this year, lawyer Sudine Riley, who is Black, was allegedly assaulted by uniformed Durham Region officers at the Oshawa courthouse. According to Riley's statement, she was slammed on a desk, had her knees placed on her back and neck, and was then dragged out of the interview room where she was working. During this incident, her headscarf was ripped off, leaving her bleeding and swollen. The officers allegedly handcuffed her and took her to the courthouse cells.

The investigation into the alleged assault was conducted by York Regional Police at the request of Durham Regional Police. The results of this investigation have now been received by Durham Regional Police, who have referred the matter to the Law Enforcement Complaints Agency (LECA) for assessment of potential misconduct. The LECA will determine whether any wrongdoing occurred and take appropriate action if necessary. This incident has sparked calls for an independent investigation from organizations such as the Criminal Lawyers' Association.

This development highlights the importance of lawyers being aware of their rights and protections when interacting with law enforcement, particularly in high-pressure situations like court appearances. Lawyers should also be mindful of potential security protocols at courthouses and take steps to ensure their safety. The incident has raised concerns about police accountability and the need for transparency in such investigations.

This development highlights the need for lawyers to be aware of their rights and protections when interacting with law enforcement, particularly in high-pressure situations like court appearances. Lawyers should also be mindful of potential security protocols at courthouses and take steps to ensure their safety.

Source: Original reporting via The Canadian Press