A Review of Deaths in Custody in Three Canadian Provinces

Abstract

In-custody deaths have garnered considerable attention in recent years, both within Canada and internationally. This study represents the first examination of death-in-custody cases across three provinces – Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario – between 2000 and 2009. To provide context, the article reviews deaths in custody in several international jurisdictions. The objective of this project was to identify baseline indicators of the nature and extent of custody deaths in Canada. Using all completed cases from the offices of Medical Examiners and Coroners, this paper compares and contrasts the manner and causes of death by type of custody (provincial vs. federal) and further compares the mortality trends (natural vs. non-natural) between the provinces. The results and findings from this comparison are then examined and the implications for policy makers are identified. Most of the recommendations relate to improved intake and more sophisticated pre-screening strategies for inmates.