(file photo/BattlefordsNOW Staff)

By Kenneth Cheung

DRUG OVERDOSE

No charges for RCMP after woman’s in-custody death in Wilkie: SIRT

Mar 31, 2025 | 12:06 PM

Mounties involved in a case where a woman died in custody will not face charges following an investigation by Saskatchewan’s Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT).

The report, released Monday, states on Dec. 5, 2023, Mounties conducted a wellness check on a 35-year-old woman due to concerns about her drug use and mental health.

They found her at a site known for criminal activity, sitting at a table with drugs, paraphernalia, and knives.

Police say she refused to cooperate and repeatedly grabbed a knife to keep officers away while smoking drugs. After 30 minutes of attempted de-escalation, officers displayed a Taser to distract her and took her into custody.

Instead of laying charges, RCMP detained the woman under the Mental Health Services Act and called paramedics to check a pre-existing injury.

So we meet again

Mustangs set for 2022 playoff rematch in Round 2

31m ago

Raiders trail series 3-1

Raiders now face elimination after falling in Game 4

7h ago

LOCAL TALENT

'Retro Man' finds his way: Jake Vaadeland reflects on humble roots and JUNO win

13h ago

She walked to the ambulance on her own and was alert during a 20-minute assessment before suddenly going into medical distress. She was rushed to hospital but did not survive.

An autopsy determined the woman’s cause of death was due to a cocaine overdose. A bag containing cocaine was also located inside the woman’s body.

After reviewing the case, SIRT ruled that officers acted appropriately and sought medical help for the woman before any signs of distress. The woman’s name was redacted from the records. The case is now closed with no charges.

—

Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com