A serious incident involving Durham Regional Police (DRPS) at the Oshawa courthouse has raised significant concerns about safety and accountability within the legal community. A defence lawyer, Sudine Riley, reportedly experienced violent treatment from police officers after an incident during legal work.
Incident Details
According to a statement from her lawyer, Neha Chugh, the altercation occurred on January 23, shortly after 5 p.m. Riley had just completed a trial and was working in an interview room. Security personnel confronted her regarding her presence there.
Allegations of Violence
- Officers allegedly slammed Riley’s head against a desk without provocation.
- She was restrained with knee pressure on her back and neck while being verbally mistreated.
- Riley was subsequently dragged out of the room in handcuffs, experiencing physical injuries, including a swollen eye and a bleeding head.
- During the incident, her headscarf was reportedly removed, exacerbating the distress of the event.
Chugh’s statement emphasized that Riley committed no wrongdoing, highlighting the racial dynamics at play. She noted that the incident seemed to stem simply from Riley being a Black woman seeking justice.
Investigation Status
The DRPS has confirmed the initiation of an investigation into the incident. Sgt. Janalyn Dowdle stated that they are coordinating with the court services to collect and assess evidence, indicating the seriousness with which the police department is approaching the matter.
Questions remain regarding whether the investigation will be transferred to an external agency, however, no further information has yet been provided as the inquiry is ongoing.
Response from Legal Community
The incident has prompted fear and anxiety among lawyers working at the Oshawa courthouse. The group Women in Canadian Criminal Defence (WICCD), representing around 800 attorneys across Canada, has expressed concern and urged for enhanced safety measures.
Cassandra DeMelo, president of WICCD, described the situation as “bizarre” and highlighted the urgency of their request for increased security. Lawyers often work late hours, raising questions about their safety after formal court hours.
Request for Independent Oversight
Advocates are requesting an independent investigation to ensure transparency and address potential bias. Theresa Donkor, director of advocacy for the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers, emphasized the importance of impartiality in the investigation. She expressed concern over the potential for unfair treatment and the need for accountability.
Next Steps for Affected Lawyer
Sudine Riley has indicated she will take time to recover from this traumatic experience before deciding on further actions. The legal community is rallying behind her, calling for careful handling of the allegations and the incidents surrounding them.
The events at the Oshawa courthouse serve as a reminder of ongoing issues regarding safety and treatment within the justice system, particularly for marginalized groups. The outcome of the investigation may hold significant implications for policies concerning courthouse security and the protection of legal professionals.
