As the grim anniversary of Jamal Francique Jr.’s death approaches, his mother, Ann-Marie White, is determined to ensure her son’s story is heard. Francique, a father of two, was killed by Peel police officers on January 7, 2020, a tragic event that has left his family in a constant state of mourning and a relentless pursuit of justice.
A Mother’s Struggle For Justice
Francique’s death occurred when officers from the Peel police street crime unit arrived at a Mississauga townhouse complex to arrest him for breaching his bail conditions. “The trauma is always there,” White stated, her voice heavy with sorrow. “Once I go back to that night they took my child, it breaks me. It’s the worst pain.”
Details of the Incident
According to reports, the arresting officer fired several shots at the windshield of Francique’s vehicle, fatally wounding him in the head. He succumbed to his injuries two days later in the hospital. The Peel police, however, maintain that their actions were not negligent and that they did not use excessive force. Their defence was based on self-defence, necessity, and legal authority.
Legal Battles and Allegations of Misconduct
Despite the dismissal of their complaint by the Law Enforcement Complaints Agency (LECA), White’s family has filed a lawsuit against the police. “I’m keeping up the fight because what they did to my son was unjust,” White asserted. Francique’s father, Derek, echoed her sentiments, expressing his desire for the officers involved to face criminal charges for his son’s death.
‘The author of his own misfortune’
Legal documents filed to a Toronto Superior Court of Justice in 2023 reveal that the defendants, including the Peel Regional Police Service and Peel Regional Paramedic Services, intend to fight the civil suit. They argue that Francique was actively involved in drug trafficking and potentially armed, which justified their actions.
‘Highly dangerous and racialized policing tactics’
In their lawsuit, the family alleges that the officers used excessive and unlawful force, reflecting a pattern of “highly dangerous and racialized policing tactics”. Their lawyer, David Shellnutt, criticized the police for opting for a high-risk takedown over a routine bail breach.
The Continuing Fight for Justice
Despite the challenges, White and her family remain committed to their quest for justice. While they await the next steps in their civil suit, they are also preparing for the emotional ordeal of an inquest. “Going into this inquest, I know it’s going to rip my heart out because I feel like I’ve just lost my child yesterday,” said White.
Remembering Jamal Francique
Amidst the legal battles and the grief, White cherishes the memories of her son. Known for his talent in auto repair, Francique was passionate about refurbishing damaged vehicles. “He was my world,” she said. “I’m going to be his voice until I leave this earth.”
