Review of alleged misconduct in Mona Wang case returned to RCMP for 'further investigation'

Abbotsford police have returned a high-profile case of alleged officer misconduct to the RCMP asking for further investigation, in what B.C.'s former solicitor general calls an unusual and concerningmove.

In June, surveillance video emerged of Kelowna RCMP Const. Lacy Browning dragging Mona Wang down a hallway, and then stepping on the UBC Okanagan nursing student's head.

The officer was responding to a wellness check at Wang's apartment fromJanuary 2020.

Browning was placed on desk duty, and the Kelowna RCMP began a criminal investigation into her actions.

The results of that investigation were sent to Abbotsford police for an external review, including any recommendations for criminal prosecution.

But now, theRCMPtells CBC News: "The matter has been reviewed and returned to the RCMP with further investigation required."

"We are conducting the necessary follow-up," saidSgt. Janelle Shoihet, a senior media relations officer with the RCMP. "It is important that any reviews be thorough and complete and as such will take variable amounts of time."

'I have no confidence'

Former B.C. solicitor general Kash Heed says it is highly unusual for an independent review to be handed back to investigators.

"It is concerning. That is concerning," he said.

"I have no confidence in what is happening here. It appears the Abbotsford police have identified some flaws in the investigation and have given it back to the RCMP to do. It should be pulled out of their hands."

Heed, who also served as the chief superintendent of West Vancouver police and was the first Indo-Canadian chief of police in Canada, says B.C.'s civilian Independent Investigations Office needs to be empowered.

"The IIO should have a mandate to investigate all criminal conduct or alleged criminal conduct against a service police officer here in British Columbia," Heed said.

The IIOcan only investigate cases of serious harm or death.

Mona Wang has filed a civil case against the RCMP. That case is still before the courts.

The RCMP's Shoihetsays there is no deadline to complete the review of the case.

"I have no diary date with respect to when this will be completed."

Abbotsford police declined to comment on the review.

RCMP have also launched an internal code of conduct investigation into Const. Browning's conduct.