Black Habits - Ottawa police probe racial profiling claim

Ottawa police say they've started an internal investigation after an 18-year-old man driving a Mercedes-Benz claimed he was pulled over because he is black.

Chad Aiken said he was driving home with friends in his mother's car early Sunday morning when a police officer spotted him. Aiken said the police officer made a U-turn and started following him. Aiken said he was pulled over, but not given a reason why. He said the officer tried to provoke him and then assaulted him. He said the officer also refused to give his badge number. Using his cellphone, Aiken allegedly recorded part of the conversation: Aiken: Is there any way I can get your badge number, sir? Officer: No, you can't. Why?...666 is my badge number. Aiken: Why can't I get your badge number...and your name is? Officer: 666 Aiken was given a ticket because of a burned-out light above his licence plate. Aiken and his lawyer, Margaret Parsons, believe racial profiling is the central issue in this case. But Ottawa police appear more focused on the officer's conduct in general. "I have concerns whenever any police officer acts or appears to act in a manner that would be discerned by the public as less than professional," Deputy Chief Larry Hill said. "That's why we've launched the internal investigation to get a full idea of what transpired." Meanwhile, Aiken is considering his legal options and whether he will file an official complaint with the police.

Note: CBC News. Last Updated Wed, 01 Jun 2005 13:07:48 EDT.