The Deputy Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Stacey O’Brien, has terminated an investigation into the hospitalization of a 39-year-old woman while she was in police custody in Belleville.
On October 1, 2025, Belleville Police Service officers executed a search warrant at a residence in the area of Dundas Street East and Church Street, and arrested the woman. While in her cell, the woman reported feeling unwell due to drug withdrawal. She was transported to the hospital on two occasions, initially, reportedly treated for suspected drug withdrawal and discharged. Subsequently, reportedly diagnosed with pneumonia and admitted to the ICU, where she later suffered a heart attack.
Efforts by the SIU to speak with the woman since the incident have been unsuccessful due to her medical condition. Medical records were unobtainable due to the inability to obtain consent from the woman, next of kin refusal, and applicable privacy restrictions. In the absence of a statement, or confirmation of ‘serious injury’ within the mandate of the SIU, there was insufficient evidentiary foundation from which to proceed with an investigation, and the unit was without jurisdiction to investigate the incident. Every consideration will be given to re-opening the file should the woman regain capacity, or her next of kin elect to provide support.
