Public hearing called into police misconduct of two Delta, B.C., officers

VANCOUVER – The Police Complaint Commissioner says a public hearing must be held to determine whether two officers used excessive force in a 2011 detention, ruling Wednesday that previous disciplinary proceedings were flawed.

Almost two years ago, Const. Aaron Hill and Const. Aaron McRae of the Delta Police Department allegedly tackled a man off of his bike and repeatedly smashed his face into the cement.

This June, after a lengthy review process, the allegations were dismissed.

But retired Judge De Villiers noted in his dismissal that he wasn’t allowed to cross-examined those who testified, and potential witnesses such as the cyclist himself weren’t allowed to participate.

Now, Commissioner Stan Lowe has ordered a binding public hearing to determine what discipline, if any, the officers should receive, saying De Villiers may have been mistaken.

The hearing will allow for cross-examination and witness participation, resolving issues Lowe identified with previous proceedings.