Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Hamilton police board to review use of force policy after officer charged with assault

First Published:

The Hamilton Police Services Board says it will be reviewing its use of force training and policies following the violent arrest of an Indigenous man that was caught on camera.

The video recorded by a witness shows several plainclothes police officers violently arresting Patrick Tomchuk.

“We acknowledge there are systemic changes needed to address the historical relationship between law enforcement and Indigenous peoples in Canada,” the police board said in a media release Thursday.

“As the governing body for the police service, we are committed to engaging and supporting the community in creating transformative change that addresses and fosters true reconciliation.”

Police were investigating a stolen vehicle at a gas station on the mountain on May 26, which led to the arrest of Tomchuk.

Const. Brian Wren, 45, was suspended and charged with assault because of the incident.

Following a review of the incident, police said no other officers involved used excessive force.

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