Coroner's Inquest Recommends 24/7 Monitoring for Prince George RCMP Cells Following Indigenous Woman’s Death

A coroner's inquest into the death of 35-year-old Indigenous woman Lindsey Izony in a Prince George RCMP holding cell has recommended continuous staffing of a detention guard to monitor detainees for signs of medical distress. Izony died on July 20, 2019, from methamphetamine toxicity after being arrested in a park the day prior.

B.C.'s Independent Investigations Office (IIO) previously concluded her death was accidental and found no negligence by officers or guards who had monitored her that night. After five days of testimony, the inquest jury affirmed the accidental cause of death and issued several recommendations, including that RCMP provide 24/7 medical support and a secondary means to access individual cells if necessary.

The recommendations also called for expanded training for RCMP officers and guards on recognizing the effects of illicit drugs and when to seek medical help. Additionally, the inquest advised the province to improve access to social services and substance use education for local First Nations communities.

According to the IIO report, Izony was arrested on July 19 following reports of a disturbance and held until she was sober enough for release. The report states that she displayed erratic behavior and was administered Naloxone after a guard suspected a seizure, but paramedics were ultimately unable to revive her. The IIO found that her care met monitoring standards, with no evidence of excessive force or neglect.