Home / Crime and Justice / Death Inquiry Set for Man Beaten by Police
Death Inquiry Set for Man Beaten by Police
24 Sep
Summary
- Man died after being punched nearly two dozen times by police.
- Autopsy cited restraint, cocaine, and heart condition as causes.
- A hearing will review actions taken in the man's death.
A standing hearing date has been set for October 28 in a Winnipeg courtroom to examine the circumstances surrounding the death of Elias Whitehead, a 37-year-old man from Split Lake. Whitehead passed away on October 15, 2023, after being subjected to nearly two dozen punches by police officers during his arrest near a gas station.
An autopsy report determined the immediate cause of death was subdual and prone restraint by police, complicated by cocaine intoxication and cardiomegaly. Despite the IIU recommending Winnipeg police reevaluate their use-of-force policies, Crown prosecutors have declined to recommend charges, citing no reasonable likelihood of conviction.
Those wishing to speak at the October 28 hearing must contact inquest counsel Erika Dolcetti by October 19.
