Ontario NDP statement on coroner’s recommendation into the death of Soleiman Faqiri

TORONTO – MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam (Toronto Centre), NDP critic for the Attorney General, released the following statement in response to the Ontario coroner’s council recommendation that Soleiman Faqiri’s death be ruled a homicide:

“My thoughts are with the family of Soleiman Faqiri today as they endure once again the pain of remembering this violent and heartbreaking tragedy in their pursuit of justice. Mr. Faqiri’s death was a failure of justice, and anyone found responsible must be held accountable. I will be following the verdict next week closely, in the hope it will bring a small measure of closure for his family.

The coroner’s recommendations deserve serious attention, and I hope that they will lead to change. It is my expectation that we see a meaningful commitment from this government that they will act to ensure that no Ontarians face violence when in our corrections system. New Democrats stand with Mr. Faqiri’s family and racialized, Black, and Indigenous communities across the province who are calling for systemic reforms to mental health crisis response.”

Background

• Instead of receiving compassion and access to mental health supports during a time of crisis, Faqiri was put in solitary confinement, brutally beaten, and pepper-sprayed, shackled face-down and wearing a spit hood – a combination that a jail sergeant at the scene that day, as well as a former police college instructor referred to as a ‘triple threat’ and a ‘perfect storm’ for cutting off his oxygen supply and death by asphyxiation
• The coroner’s office is proposing 55 recommendations for jurors to consider, in an effort to ensure an injustice like this never happens again
• No criminal charges have ever been laid in Faqiri’s death, despite documents outlining unauthorized use of force by correctional officers
• A verdict is expected next week
• Faqiri’s death makes it clear how desperately Ontario needs systemic reform