URGENT UPDATE: A Burlington resident, Daniel Dobson, is fighting back after a judge just halted the prosecution of his criminal charges stemming from a December 2022 arrest at Casino Rama. This decision paves the way for Dobson to pursue a staggering $3.5 million lawsuit, claiming excessive force and wrongful arrest.
On April 7, 2023, Justice A.M. Nichols of the Ontario Court of Justice in Orillia ruled that the lengthy delay in Dobson’s trial violated his Charter right to a timely hearing. After more than two years of legal battles, Dobson expressed relief, stating, “This has been a nightmare.” He has invested approximately $25,000 in his defense against what he insists are baseless allegations.
Dobson’s ordeal began when he was involved in a clash with casino security and police. He was accused of assaulting officers and resisting arrest, facing a total of eight charges. However, Dobson maintains he was a victim of an unprovoked attack, asserting that he was tackled, restrained, and beaten while attempting to leave the casino. He reported suffering from concussions and ongoing injuries, including severe pain in his arm and wrist.
In a shocking account, Dobson claims that officers pulled his sweatshirt over his face, shackled him, and transported him without a seatbelt, rendering him briefly unconscious. Despite his requests, he alleges he was denied immediate medical care. The allegations against him included accusations of biting both an officer and a security guard, which he vehemently denies.
In 2024, Dobson filed a civil lawsuit against Casino Rama, its parent company Gateway Casinos and Entertainment, the Rama Police Service, and several named officers and guards. The lawsuit includes charges of negligence, false arrest, excessive force, and malicious prosecution. While Casino Rama has filed a defense, the Rama police have yet to respond.
Additionally, Dobson lodged a complaint against a Rama police constable for alleged abuse during his arrest. However, an internal review concluded there was no misconduct, and his complaint was dismissed last year.
Dobson continues to struggle with persistent pain and emotional trauma from the incident. He calls for accountability and an apology, stressing that his pursuit of justice goes beyond financial compensation; he aims to expose what he considers a failure of justice.
As this case develops, the implications could resonate beyond Dobson’s personal ordeal, raising serious questions about police conduct and security protocols at casinos. The community and legal experts alike are watching closely how this lawsuit unfolds and what it means for accountability in similar situations.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story continues to evolve.
