Special Investigations Unit (Ontario)

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is an independent government agency in the province of Ontario, Canada. Its mandate is to investigate incidents involving police officers, either municipal, regional, or Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), that have resulted in serious injury, sexual assault, or death.

The SIU's primary function is to determine whether a police officer has committed a criminal offence in connection with the incident under investigation. All investigations are conducted under the authority of the Police Services Act of Ontario.

The unit is headed by a civilian director, appointed by the provincial government. The director has the power to lay criminal charges against police officers if the evidence meets the required legal standard. Even if charges are not laid, the SIU publishes a public report summarizing its findings and conclusions.

The SIU's investigations are intended to ensure police accountability and transparency in situations where there is potential police misconduct. Its work aims to maintain public confidence in policing and the administration of justice. It operates independently from the police forces it investigates.