'I couldn't breathe': Nanaimo woman left bruised, bloody after RCMP wellness check

The first public report of the IIO describes the incident, on May 26 at about 2:20 pm, as a “call from an individual concerned about the safety and wellness of an affected person.”

“A physical altercation ensued. The woman was transported to hospital. Several days later police learned that the woman had suffered serious injuries and the IIO was notified,” the report reads.

Blanchard said she was struggling with depression and was having a discussion with her son that was difficult for her. She said she locked herself in the bathroom, crying. One of her family members called 911 in the hopes they could get medical assistance.

Five RCMP officers came first, which worried Blanchard. She said she refused to come out, saying she wanted to wait for paramedics.

“I let them know I was not suicidal. I let them know I was not intending to harm myself and that I hadn’t taken any medication,” she said.

“I eventually realized I was at a standoff and they wouldn’t leave unless I came out…one officer said I was being apprehended under the Mental Health Act. I stood up quickly and said, ‘No, you can’t.’ He punched me so hard my entire head spun 360 degrees,” she said.

[link to bc.ctvnews.ca (secure)]