Manitoba watchdog: No charges for officers in 2024 fatal incident
Manitoba’s police oversight body has concluded its investigation into a shooting incident, determining that no charges will be filed against the involved officers. This decision comes in response to the fatal shooting of a man in Winnipeg last year.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred after officers responded to a shoplifting report near a bus shelter at the Unicity Shopping Centre. The deceased has been identified as Jordan Charlie, a 24-year-old from Nunavut. A report from the Independent Investigation Unit (IIU) released on December 1, 2023, stated that the officers acted reasonably.
Evidence Review
- The IIU report noted that officers were justified in their actions.
- Surveillance footage and witness accounts were reviewed during the investigation.
- Charlie reportedly stabbed an officer during a confrontation.
A witness, a loss prevention officer from a nearby Walmart, observed Charlie triggering an alarm while leaving the store. When police arrived, they directed Charlie to drop weapons he was wielding, including a knife and an axe.
Context and Background of Jordan Charlie
Jordan Charlie had a troubled background marked by addiction and violence. He had been incarcerated at the Stony Mountain Institution after receiving a 4.5-year sentence in September 2019 for two unprovoked assaults in Yellowknife.
Mental Health Issues
A court-ordered psychiatric assessment conducted in 2022 revealed that Charlie struggled with several mental health conditions, including fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and a traumatic brain injury. His lawyer previously noted that Charlie had attempted suicide while imprisoned, leading to lasting brain damage and memory challenges.
Aftermath of the Shooting
After the shooting incident, Charlie was found with a hatchet and an X-Acto knife at the scene. Additionally, his backpack contained several items, including a sealed fisherman’s fillet combo and camp axes.
Conclusion of the Investigation
The IIU’s final report concluded that the officers involved did not commit a criminal offense, and thus no charges will be recommended. The agency’s investigation has been declared complete.
This case has highlighted the complexities surrounding law enforcement’s response to individuals facing serious mental health challenges. The community is urged to engage in supportive dialogue and provide resources for those struggling with similar issues.
