Coroner’s INquest

The coroner announced an inquest on November 3, 2017. This was only 4 days after the Kawartha Lakes Police Service stated that no criminal charges would be laid in the killing of Soleiman Faqiri.

An inquest is a public hearing conducted by a coroner before a jury of 5 community members. Inquests are held for the purpose of informing the public about the circumstances of a death.

The goal of an inquest is to find answers and make recommendations that can prevent similar deaths in the future. Although the jury’s conclusions are not binding, it is hoped that the recommendations suggested in an inquest will be implemented. 

Under the Coroners Act, an inquest is mandatory anytime a death occurs in custody or while a person is being detained.

Inquests occur after criminal investigations have been concluded and the coroner has conferred with the family.  

The date and location of the inquest into Soleiman’s death have yet to be announced.

Based on the duration of previous coroner’s inquests into prison deaths, it is likely that Soleiman’s inquest will last around a year. 

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About the Movement

Justice for Soli was founded by Soleiman’s eldest brother, Yusuf Faqiri, only one or two days after his brother’s murder in December 2016. In early 2017, the McMaster Muslims for Peace and Justice became the first organization to completely throw its support behind Justice for Soli, transforming what was once a small group of friends and family into a larger social justice movement with hundreds of supporters. Today, over 100 organizations are affiliated with Justice for Soli, supporting the movement in its fight for justice, transparency and accountability.