No charges after man dies shortly after Winnipeg arrest: IIU

Police are pictured on scene in the 200 block of Sherbrook Street in Winnipeg, Man. on Oct. 16, 2023. (CTV News Winnipeg)

Manitoba’s police watchdog is not recommending charges against police after a man died shortly after his arrest in October 2023.

According to the Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU), the incident took place on Oct. 15, 2023 when the Winnipeg Police Service was notified of a man behaving erratically in traffic in the 200 block of Sherbrook Street.

According to the IIU’s report, police were in the process of arresting the man when he began to have trouble breathing. The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service provided medical care before the man was taken to the Health Sciences Centre where he was pronounced dead.

The IIU took over the investigation, with six officers and 16 civilian witnesses providing statements.

According to the IIU report, the autopsy found the cause of death was “subdual and prone restraint” complicating cocaine intoxication and an enlarged heart.

The IIU consulted with the Manitoba Prosecution Service and did not authorize charges.

The full report is available online.