The Canadian Jewish Law Association (CJLA) is deeply concerned by the allegations surrounding the events involving Sudine Riley, a criminal defence lawyer, on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the Oshawa Courthouse.
As outlined in a public statement issued by Ms. Riley’s counsel, Ms. Riley had just completed a trial and was working in an interview room outside the courtroom when her presence was challenged by uniformed Durham Regional Police Service officers. It is alleged that officers forcibly removed her from the room, slammed her head onto a desk, placed knees on her back and neck, handcuffed her, and detained her in courthouse holding cells. During the incident, her headscarf was allegedly torn off, her clothing disturbed, and she sustained visible injuries, including bleeding and swelling.
Ms. Riley is a racialized female lawyer and a member of Ontario’s criminal defence bar. The allegations, if proven, describe conduct that is profoundly disturbing, particularly given that they occurred within a courthouse and involved a lawyer who was lawfully present and engaged in her professional duties.
These allegations raise serious concerns that extend beyond this individual incident.
Courthouses must be spaces where all legal professionals can carry out their duties with dignity, safety, and equal respect. Anything less undermines public confidence in the justice system and weakens the rule of law itself.
Given the seriousness of the allegations and the significant human rights concerns they raise, CJLA supports calls for a thorough, independent investigation conducted by an external body with demonstrated expertise in human rights and systemic discrimination. Accountability and transparency are essential.
The legal profession has a responsibility not only to administer the law, but to actively reject and work to eradicate discrimination, racism, and hate in all its forms. CJLA is committed to advancing equality before the law and to confronting antisemitism, racism, and all forms of discrimination.
Canadian Jewish Law Association (CJLA)