New Westminster officer who shot shoplifting suspect won’t be charged, IIO concludes
Posted October 17, 2019 3:20 pm.
Last Updated November 4, 2019 12:15 pm.
NEW WESTMINSTER (NEWS 1130) – The New Westminster police officer who shot a suspected shoplifter near the Queensborough mall in January of 2016 will not be charged because he likely acted in self-defence.
The man who was shot was armed with a gun, and has since recovered, but the province’s police watchdog recommended further review.
Investigators reported police fired at least eight shots in the mall parking lot after the suspect pointed his gun at the officer, but didn’t shoot.
BC’s Independent Investigations Office (IIO) looked at three possible charges, including aggravated assault, attempted murder and careless use of a firearm, but the BC Prosecution Service found that the use of force was justified.
Police were initially were called out to the mall about a potential shop lifter, who tried to run away. At first, the officer tried to use his taser, and when he was too far away, fired his gun.
Editor’s Note: A previous headline suggested the officer involved in this case had been charged. The headline has been corrected to show the officer was not charged.
