May 12, 2021

West Grey Police officer cleared by S.I.U.

This photo of David Hillier in his hospital bed following an interaction with police was circulated by Davin Charney, lawyer for his son, Casey, on social media in June, 2020.

BY SOUTHGREY.CA STAFF — Ontario’s civilian Special Investigations Unit has cleared a West Grey police officer of any wrongdoing in relation to injuries sustained during the arrest of David Hillier in June, 2020.

The incident on June 6, 2020 hospitalized the 68-year-old man after two males became combative with police who were investigating and effecting arrests at a domestic disturbance.

The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, has determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe that an officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the man’s arrest and injuries.

Following the June 6 event, Davin Charney, a criminal lawyer whose Toronto practice champions justice for victims of police abuse, took to social media to share images of Hillier's bruised body, prompting thousands of shares and emotionally-charged comments, both in opposition to, and in support of, the police.

The incident sparked outrage from some West Grey residents, culminating in a protest on the streets of Durham last June.

Charney stands by his characterization of the incident last year. A criminal trial is scheduled to begin at the end of November. Davin Charney will represent Casey Hillier. David Hillier is represented by Reid Rusonik.

 

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