Officer assaulted while arresting naked man: WPS

The Winnipeg police headquarters seen in a file image (CTV News Winnipeg)

Manitoba’s police watchdog is investigating after a naked man was injured after an encounter with police.

The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) said officers were called to the intersection of Broadway and Furby Street on Saturday morning around 5:15 a.m.

According to a Tuesday news release, callers reported the man was unclothed, appeared disoriented, and was trying to get into vehicles in the area.

Police said paramedics were called and medically cleared the man at the scene before officers drove him home. However, he ran off – still naked – as they approached the front door of his apartment building.

Officers caught up to the man after a short foot pursuit, but police say he became “physically combative” and assaulted the officers.

Police said a use-of-force encounter occurred and additional units helped arrest the man. He was taken to Health Sciences Centre in stable condition and was medically sedated. The following day, police learned the man had suffered fractures to his face and remained in hospital.

Police said one officer was hurt during the melee but didn’t require medical attention.

A 34-year-old man is facing charges of assaulting a peace officer and assaulting peace officer with a weapon.

None of the allegations have been tested in court.

The Independent Investigation Unit (IIU) of Manitoba was notified as the incident involved serious injuries.

Anyone with information or video footage that could help with the investigation is asked to contact the IIU.