Procedure followed in Paul death: review

A Halifax Regional Police review has concluded there was no wrongdoing by Truro police after a woman suffered a massive stroke in their custody.

Victoria Rose Paul, 44, was arrested for public intoxication outside a Truro bar in August 2009.

In a press release, Truro police said the operational review found that Paul's detention was lawful and all procedures were followed.But, it recommended enhanced training for officers assessing intoxicated persons, and one other "minor policy" recommendation.

"The implementation of these recommendations will be studied and acted upon," the press release said.

"The Truro Police Service take the safety and security of people in our lock up very seriously."

After receiving the report in early November, the Truro Police Service said it reviewed it, and met with the Paul family and the Nova Scotia Native Women's Association Friday morning.

Cheryl Maloney, president of Nova Scotia Native Women's Association, said her organization and the Paul family are "reviewing the executive summary, not the full report."

She said they will not comment on the matter until early next week.

Truro police also would not comment on the report.

The Indian Brook woman was arrested with her son, Deveron Paul, who was wanted for breach of bail conditions.

Deveron Paul said officers were rough with him and his mother. He said she struggled with six or seven officers.

Paul was placed in the jail cell next to his mother. The next morning, he said, police told him they couldn't rouse her. He maintains five hours passed before an officer called 911.

Days later, Victoria Paul's family made the decision to take her off life support. Since that time, her family has been demanding answers.

Truro Police Service requested a review of the incident.