Province to call for judicial inquiry into Darryl Power shooting

Justice Minister and Attorney General Kelvin Parsons has confirmed that the province�s Director of Public Prosecutions has received and reviewed the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) report into the October 16, 2000, shooting of Corner Brook resident Darryl Power by the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC).

According to Minister Parsons, the OPP have concluded that there is no evidence to lay criminal charges against RNC officers involved in this incident. The Director of Public Prosecutions agrees. "I am confident that a thorough investigation was carried out," said Minister Parsons. "According to the OPP, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary responded appropriately."

The minister also announced that, based on a recommendation by the province�s chief medical examiner, a judicial inquiry will be called into this incident. The date and time of the inquiry will be determined by the Chief Provincial Court Judge.

Media contact: Kathy Dicks-Peyton, Communications, (709) 729-6564

2000 01 19                    3:40 p.m.