THUNDER BAY – The Thunder Bay police officer captured on video striking an Indigenous teen last year is facing disciplinary charges.
The officer – Courtney Clair – has been charged with two counts unlawful or unnecessary exercise of authority under the Police Services Act, the Thunder Bay Police Service announced on Tuesday.
The video, which was widely circulated after being posted on social media, shows the female officer slapping an individual on a gurney and then shouting “that’s enough,” and “you do not spit on me.”
A subsequent police service news release said officers responded to calls to assist paramedics with an injured adult woman at an Egan Street residence. While on scene, an intoxicated 17-year-old female was found inside the residence.
While being readied for transport to hospital, a female Uniform Patrol officer is seen to be in physical contact with the youth. A video showing a portion of the incident was captured and posted on social media,” the police news release stated.
Thunder Bay police did not provide the full name of the officer, omitting the name from the news release and listing a hearing date scheduled for “Cst. C. Clair” next month on the professional standards section of their website.
Clair has an appearance date scheduled for Oct. 17. Police said the officer remains off duty.
Two other Thunder Bay police officers have pending disciplinary matters.
Const. Heather McKay, who is scheduled to appear on Oct. 1, is facing 25 counts of neglect of duty. Const. Neal Soltys is facing a discreditable conduct charge relating to an individual charged under the Liquor License Act in August 2014 and has an appearance date listed for next month.
- TBNewsWatch.com
