Sask. coroner recommends changes to training, searches following in-cell death in Moose Jaw [Video]

Warning: This story contains descriptions of suicide.

A Saskatchewan Coroners Service inquest has called for changes in the way police across the province conduct and catalogue searches following the 2021 in-custody death of Jeremy Sabourin.

Sabourin, 40, was transported to the Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) by Assiniboia RCMP on Oct. 6, 2021.

The following morning at around 9:25, Sabourin died due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

It was discovered that Sabourin had been in possession of a concealed handgun while in custody.

According to his obituary, Sabourin was a member of the Saskatchewan Handgun Association and served as a local safety officer for years.

The inquest, which ran from April 15-18 at Moose Jaw’s Heritage Inn Hotel, saw a six-person jury produce a long list of recommendations for both the RCMP and the MJPS to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Annual testing and qualifications for members on approved physical and wand search …