Cape Breton officer referred to restorative justice after taking sign during search: SiRT

A Cape Breton Regional Police vehicle is pictured.

A Cape Breton Regional Police officer has been referred to the restorative justice program after unlawfully taking a sign during a search of a residence last September, according to the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT).

Cape Breton officers executed a search warrant at a residence on Sept. 30, 2025, according to a report by SiRT director Erin Nauss. An officer took a sign from the location and did not document it as one of the seized items.

“The sign was eventually located in the officer’s office,” the report reads. “Video footage captured the officer taking the sign.

“The SO (subject officer) admitted to taking the sign and accepted responsibility for his actions. The sign was of minimal value but held sentimental value for the Affected Party.”

The report noted this kind of conduct would typically result in a charge for theft under section 334 of the Criminal Code, but Nauss said the Nova Scotia Restorative Justice Program (NSRJS) can be used as an alternative to the traditional court system.

“In assessing whether to make a referral to the NSRJP, I have considered the goals and objectives of restorative justice and have determined this is an appropriate mechanism to address the harms and impacts of this situation,” the report reads. “In the event the SO fails or declines to participate, a criminal charge will be laid.”

SiRT investigates matters involving death, serious injury, sexual assault, intimate partner violence and other cases of public interest that may have arisen from the actions of any police officer in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

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