News Release - Winnipeg Police Service

Friday, October 20, 2017     Statement from Chief Danny Smyth I am here to provide an update on the investigation of an off duty Winnipeg Police Officer and a fatal collision that occurred on October 10, 2017.     As I mentioned in an earlier press release, we were asked to assist the IIU in a number of aspects of the investigation including some forensic examination, scene examination, and technical testing used to establish impairment. At one point over 50 WPS officers and staff assisted.     I also mentioned that breath samples were obtained from Cst. Justin Holz. While I don't have the specific times of the testing--I was informed that the testing occurred between 3 and 4 hours after arresting officers formed the opinion that Cst. Holz was impaired.     I also assigned one of our Homicide Sergeants to coordinate and liaise with the IIU investigators all of the work that we conducted by our members as part of this investigation.     Yesterday I was informed by members of my Executive team about the conduct of two officers who were assigned to assist. Their actions caused me enough concern that I contacted the Director of the IIU. They have agreed to investigate.     In the interim, I have removed both members from active duty and placed both members on Administrative Leave pending the investigative findings of the IIU.     I am in a difficult position because I cannot comment about specifics of the IIU investigation. That said I expect members of the police service to act professionally. While I do not know if the two officers have done anything criminal, it is in the best interests of the Service that they be removed from duty. Their actions will be examined by the IIU.     Details of the investigation will come out in due course by the Director of the IIU. For further information contact either:    Constable Rob Carver, Public Information Officer    Constable Jay Murray, Public Information Officer    Constable Tammy Skrabek, Public Information Officer    Kelly Dehn, Manager of Public Affairs        Phone: (204) 986-3061 | Fax: (204) 986-3267 | Email: WPS-PIO@Winnipeg.ca Share this mailing with your social network by clicking on the appropriate link:       Related Winnipeg Police Service Report a Crime Online Crime Stoppers CrimeStat Unsubscribe If you do not want to receive these emails anymore, unsubscribe.        Please do not reply to this email. This e-mail was sent from a notification-only address and replies are not monitored. Mailing address: City of Winnipeg, 510 Main Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, R3B 1B9 Privacy Statement The City of Winnipeg values your privacy. We do not sell or share your personal information with third parties. You are receiving this email as a result of your signing up for the Winnipeg Police Service Email News list offered on the City of Winnipeg website. You may unsubscribe or change your subscription options at any time.