FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 15, 2026
Files: VI 2025-50582 & IIO 2025-291
Victoria, B.C. – The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) has concluded its investigation into an incident that occurred last month involving officers of the Victoria Police Department (VicPD) and an arrest of a suspect. The IIO investigation determined that there was no connection between police action or inaction and the man’s injuries.
At approximately 12:30 p.m. on December 21, 2025, VicPD received reports of an individual causing a disturbance at the Johnson Street and Wharf Street intersection, yelling, throwing items into traffic, and assaulting a member of the public. Subsequent calls reported the same person acting aggressively and making threats in Bastion Square.
Police located and arrested one man. A Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW), also known as a taser, was drawn but not deployed. During transport to cells, officers reported the man intentionally striking his head against the interior of the police vehicle. The man’s behaviour continued to escalate, and officers called paramedics.
The man was transported to hospital, where he required medical intervention.
The IIO initiated an investigation to determine whether any actions of the VicPD officers contributed to the patient’s medical condition.
The IIO investigation concluded that the evidence, confirms the man’s physical injuries were a direct result of his self-inflicted actions while in police custody and the medical intervention required was related to the effects of substances consumed prior to police contact. The IIO found no connection between the suspect’s injuries and the actions of any VicPD officers.
VicPD continues to support the officers involved and will cooperate with any future inquiries.