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Delta seeking higher standards for IIO

Resolution to go to this month's UBCM conference calls for greater oversight of investigations
iio
The Independent Investigations Office investigated after a Delta police officer fatally shot a man outside a New Westminster casino in 2012.

Delta is lobbying for changes to the agency tasked with conducting independent investigations of serious police incidents.

A resolution up for consideration at this month's Union of B. C. Municipalities conference in Victoria calls for new standards for the Independent Investigations Office (IIO).

Delta wants the provincial government to establish investigative standards for the IIO that are comparable to B. C. police departments.

Delta police Chief Neil Dubord explained that changes in standards are already being implemented for all police departments whereby major crime investigations require certified case managers. It's a new process where a so-called "team commander" oversees the investigation.

"We would like to see that same standard apply to the IIO, which investigates major crimes, cases of serious harm or death, and as a result they should have to investigate to the same level and standard that police departments do. We want to make sure those standards apply to not only police departments but also to others investigating serious crimes," Dubord said.

The team commander oversees the various aspects of an investigation to make sure the team is maintaining national standards, whether it be in the collection of evidence, interviewing of witnesses or other aspects. Those accredited as a team commander go through an extensive course through the Canadian Police College.

Dubord said Delta "already meets and exceeds the standard" with two police officers designated as team commanders. A third is going through the process.

Noting the new standard ensures competence and accountability, he added the call for the IIO to do likewise stems not only from a fatal shooting involving a Delta officer a few years ago but others as well.

"There's actually been conversations about ensuring that all investigators need a certain level of accreditation by even the B. C. (police) chiefs. We've had conversations but haven't put forward a motion. It's happened not just stemming from the Delta case but several of the investigations that the IIO has been involved in. Although the MacWilliams case is one case, there are numerous other ones where the investigative standards may or may not have been met."

Delta police Const. Jordan MacWilliams fatally shot Merhdad Bayrami in 2012 during a standoff outside the Starlight Casino in New Westminster. A member of the Municipal Integrated Emergency Response Team at the time, MacWilliams was assigned to the role of lethal overwatch for his team.

MacWilliams was initially charged with second degree murder following an investigation by the IIO, but the Criminal Justice Branch later announced it was staying the charge after conducting further investigation.

A corners inquest made several recommendations but did not conclude there was any wrongdoing in how MacWilliams handled the situation.

A spokesperson for the IIO said the agency is aware of the proposed Delta resolution but has no comment at this time.