Inquest into Indigenous woman’s death in Prince George RCMP holding cell recommends 24/7 monitoring
A tragic incident occurred in Prince George RCMP holding cells where an Indigenous woman, Lindsey Izony, lost her life due to methamphetamine toxicity. The coroner’s inquest into her death recommended that officers staff a detention guard 24/7 to monitor individuals in custody for any signs of medical distress.
Lindsey Izony, aged 35, passed away on July 20, 2019, after being arrested the previous day in a park. The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) found that her death was accidental and did not attribute negligence to the officers and jail guards who were responsible for her care that night.
After five days of testimonies from witnesses, the coroner’s inquest jury determined the cause of death to be accidental and put forth several recommendations to prevent similar tragedies in the future. These recommendations included having a cell guard on duty at all times in the Prince George detachment, reviewing oversight structures between cell guards and officers, implementing 24/7 medical support in cell facilities, and ensuring access to individual cells through a secondary method if necessary.
Furthermore, the jury advised the province to provide accessible social services and education on substance use for First Nations members in the Prince George area. They also recommended that the RCMP update their training for detention guards and officers regarding illicit drugs, their effects on the body, and when to seek medical assistance.
It is important to note that recommendations from coroner’s inquests are not legally binding but serve as guidelines to prevent similar incidents in the future. The tragic death of Lindsey Izony underscores the importance of adequate monitoring and care for individuals in police custody to prevent such unfortunate outcomes.
The incident report by the IIO revealed that Izony was arrested following reports of a disturbance in a park and was placed in the cells to sober up before being released. Despite constant movement and yelling in the cell, it wasn’t until she began exhibiting erratic behavior on the floor that medical attention was sought.
A cell guard checked on her when she appeared to be having a seizure, and Naloxone was administered when it was suspected that she was overdosing. Despite efforts to resuscitate her, Izony did not survive. The IIO report concluded that the monitoring of Izony while in custody was deemed satisfactory, and there was no evidence of inappropriate force or neglect by the officers.
The tragic loss of Lindsey Izony serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of proper monitoring and care for individuals in police custody. By implementing the recommendations set forth by the coroner’s inquest, steps can be taken to prevent similar incidents and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals in custody.
