Clayton Ruby To Ask Court to Hold Chief of Police Accountable

TORONTO, April 8, 2013 /CNW/ - On April 9, 2013, lawyer Clayton Ruby will ask the Ontario Divisional Court to order the Office of the Independent Police Review Director (OIPRD) to conduct an investigation into Toronto Chief of Police William Blair's role in the unlawful arrest of Jason Wall.  Mr. Wall had been walking home on June 27, 2010 when he was arrested by officers looking for those responsible for vandalism during the 2010 G20 protests.  Mr. Wall was detained for 28 hours.  He was released without being charged with any crime.  He was told that he was arrested for "disguise with intent to commit an indictable offence."  There was no disguise.  He had worn a bandana around his neck.

The OIPRD investigated Mr. Wall's complaint and concluded that two Toronto police officers had unlawfully arrested and detained Mr. Wall.  But the OIPRD failed to conduct a full investigation.  The arresting officers told the OIPRD that they had been ordered by "upper command" and the "Chief of Police" to arrest anyone wearing a bandana.   The OIPRD failed to do anything to investigate senior officers or the Chief of Police.  When Mr. Wall petitioned the OIPRD to finish its investigation, the OIPRD told him that it was not in the public interest to continue.

The Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA), which referred Mr. Wall to Clayton Ruby's office and supports the case, has noted that this is one of numerous G20 cases where individuals walking on the street with bandannas were profiled, harassed, searched or arrested.  Prior to the G20, the CCLA had specifically alerted the Integrated Security Unit that mere possession of items such as bandannas did not, on its own, provide reasonable grounds for arrest.  The police ignored this information.

The hearing will take place at 10 a.m. on April 9, 2013 in courtroom #3 at Osgoode Hall, 130 Queen Street West, Toronto.

The factum submitted on behalf of Mr. Wall will be available to the media by request.  Please e-mail Cheryl McKinnon ([email protected]) to request a copy.

SOURCE: Ruby Shiller Chan Hasan

Media contacts:

Clayton Ruby ([email protected])
416-964-9664

Nader Hasan ([email protected])
416-964-9664