RCMP in the Northwest Territories are pushing back against allegations of excessive force and systemic racism following the arrest of a wanted suspect who later suffered severe frostbite.
In a statement released Wednesday, police said 25-year-old Elias Schiller was arrested on Dec. 14 after officers stopped his vehicle along Highway 3 near the community of Behchokǫ̀. According to RCMP, Schiller was wanted on outstanding warrants at the time of the stop.
Police allege that Schiller provided a false name and refused repeated instructions to exit his vehicle, prompting officers to deploy a conducted energy weapon and pepper spray to gain control of the situation.
RCMP say that despite temperatures plunging to approximately –30 C, Schiller repeatedly refused to stand up or enter the police vehicle on his own. Officers say his continued non-compliance resulted in prolonged exposure to the cold, leading to serious frostbite injuries.
The arrest drew sharp criticism from Dene National Chief George Mackenzie, who accused police of using excessive force and reinforcing systemic racism in their handling of the incident.
In response, Yellowknife RCMP rejected those claims, stating that the officers’ actions were necessary and proportionate given the circumstances. Police also invited Mackenzie to meet with them to review available evidence, including body-worn camera footage, and to work toward improved communication processes to prevent similar disputes in the future.
