Two Smiths Falls police officers are under investigation after a video showed one dragging a handcuffed woman from a cruiser. External probe underway.
Incident Sparks Outrage in Ontario Town
A disturbing video showing Smiths Falls, Ont. police officer forcibly dragging a handcuffed woman from a cruiser has led to swift administrative action and a third-party investigation. The footage, shared widely online, has prompted public outcry and renewed concerns over police treatment of vulnerable individuals.
Video Prompts Immediate Review
The incident occurred Saturday night following the arrest of a 29-year-old woman, identified by her family as Rebecca McNaughton, in connection with a series of disturbances in the community southwest of Ottawa. A bystander’s video appears to show an officer dragging McNaughton by her legs from the back of a cruiser before pinning her to the ground. Smiths Falls Police Chief Jodi Empey announced Monday that both officers involved have been placed on administrative duties pending an external investigation.
External Oversight Cited for Transparency
In accordance with Ontario Regulation 401/23, Chief Empey said the case has been referred to another police service due to an “institutional conflict.” She stated that no internal measures could ensure the public’s confidence in impartiality: “It would be impossible to guarantee that an informed and reasonable person would believe impartiality is maintained.”
Family Demands Accountability
McNaughton’s sister, Sarah Black, told CTV News the family is “horrified, sickened and heartbroken” by the footage. “Nobody deserves to be treated with such retaliatory violence,” she said. The family has struggled to obtain clear information about McNaughton’s condition or whereabouts, expressing frustration with police responses.
Timeline of Events
Police responded around 9 p.m. Saturday to a report of an assault and threats on Lombard Street. Two hours later, officers were called to a disturbance on Main Street East involving the same woman, where she allegedly damaged property and acted aggressively toward staff. Officers arrested her for mischief and causing a disturbance. While in the cruiser, police allege she spit and kicked through an opening in the partition, prompting physical intervention.
Charges and Ongoing Concerns
McNaughton faces several charges, including two counts of assaulting police, mischief under $5,000, failure to comply with probation, and uttering threats. She was scheduled to appear in court Monday in Perth. Paramedics assessed her at the scene, but she reportedly refused treatment. Her family says she has long struggled with mental health and addiction and calls for systemic reform in how vulnerable individuals are policed.
Witness and Public Reactions
McKenzie LeClair, who filmed the incident, said the officer appeared to alter his behavior once he realized he was being recorded. “He kind of looked around and fixed his hat,” she recalled. The video has since circulated widely, drawing criticism and calls for transparency.
Next Steps in Investigation
Chief Empey has declined further public comment during the investigation. Witnesses are encouraged to contact Staff Sgt. Wilson at 613-283-0357. Formal complaints can also be submitted via the Law Enforcement Complaints Agency website.
As Smiths Falls awaits the outcome of the investigation, the case has become a flashpoint in the broader conversation about police accountability and the treatment of those with mental health challenges.
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