3 Calgary police officers charged with kidnapping and assault

A 2010 investigation has lead to charges being laid against three Calgary police officers.

According to the Calgary Police Service, on June 22, 2015, the Calgary Police Service (CPS) Professional Standards Section received a formal report of alleged member misconduct dating back to Jan. 20, 2010.

Police say the allegations involved an incident where four officers were conducting an investigation into an at-risk youth. The officers, who were part of the Vice Unit, were searching for a youth to apprehend under the Protection of Sexually Exploited Children Act (PSECA). Throughout the investigation, the officers identified a man who they believed had information about the whereabouts of the person, or people, who might be exploiting youth.

It is further alleged that these officers brought a man into an unmarked police vehicle, and drove him around for approximately 20 minutes. Police note that during this drive, it is alleged an assault took place, and the man was returned to his original location.

During the investigation, the man involved in the incident had died, and while his death was not believed to be suspicious, he never filed a complaint against the officers prior to his death. But the incident was reported by a former member of the CPS who was with the three subject officers at the time.

Three officers charged – https://t.co/fXH28n3vYx https://t.co/1rWMopr89R

— Calgary Police (@CalgaryPolice) August 30, 2017

And on Wednesday, the Edmonton Crown Prosecutor’s Office recommended charges be laid against the three officers involved. Det. Reagan Hossack, an 18-year member of the CPS, has been charged with kidnapping. Sgt. Mark Schwartz, a 16-year member of the Service, and Det. Paul Rubner, a 25-year member, have both been charged with kidnapping and assault.

The officers have been placed on administrative leave for 7 days, at which time their status will be reviewed, according to police.

“It is clear that the expectations of police officers are very high. To the officers who have been charged today, I want you to know that we will support you as we move through this judiciary process. I recognize the deep impact this will have on you and your loved ones. We must support the system we are bound to uphold,” said acting chief Sat Parhar in a statement.

“To the employees of the CPS, I want you to know that our commitment to accountability and transparency is bound first by the law, but also balanced by the understanding of the complex nature of policing, both past and present,” he said. “To the public, we remain committed to leading a police service that Calgarians can count on in times of need. Our officers do exceptional work every day and will continue to do so.”

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