An investigation by Ontario's police watchdog has ended with charges being laid against a London police officer, accused of seriously injuring a man during an arrest last month.
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) determined a 54-year-old man had been taken to the emergency room at Victoria Hospital by a Good Samaritan on February 10. An officer, who was in the emergency room on an unrelated matter, recognized the man as being wanted on an outstanding warrant. A second officer was called to the hospital to arrest the wanted man, but during that interaction, the man was seriously injured.
According to SIU Director Tony Loparco, the police oversight agency has "reasonable grounds" to believe the officer committed a criminal offence in relation to the arrest.
Constable Travis Buckle, 26, has been charged with assault causing bodily harm. As a result, the four-year veteran of the London Police Service has been placed on administrative duties.
He is scheduled to appear in London court in relation to the charge on April 15.
"The matter is now properly before the courts. In consideration of the fair trial interests of the accused, the SIU will make no further comment pertaining to this investigation," the SIU said in a statement issued Tuesday.
The SIU investigates reports involving police where there has been death, serious injury or allegations of sexual assault.
