Peel Regional Police – A Statement From Chief Duraiappah – Officers Cleared in Jamal Francique SIU Investigation

The Voice of Canada News:

Region of Peel- Region of Peel –Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah provides a statement after the Special Investigations Unit release their findings with respect to a police shooting from January 7, 2020.

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has completed its investigation into this incident and will be taking no further action. The investigation has concluded that there were no reasonable grounds to believe that the involved officers committed any criminal offence in connection with their interaction with Mr. Jamal Francique.

On the above date, police were conducting an investigation relating to illegal drug and firearm activity which had resulted from a community complaint. Francique was the focus of the investigation and was on bail release for firearms and drug related charges. During the investigation officers observed him in breach of his bail conditions and moved to arrest him.

When they attempted to arrest him he drove his vehicle at the officers placing their lives in jeopardy. To prevent serious bodily harm or death an officer discharged their firearm. Francique ultimately succumbed to the injuries he sustained. A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of an illegal and loaded handgun.

Chief Duraiappah said “Any time a life is lost due to an interaction with police, it is a tragedy that all involved wish could have been averted. Family and loved ones are left behind with questions and the officers involved are forced to deal with the realities of the stress these outcomes cause.”