A Vancouver Police Department officer took the stand in his own defense on Monday, May 11, 2026, during his assault trial at the Vancouver Law Courts. Constable Josh Wong, 34, faces charges of assault causing bodily harm stemming from an incident in July 2023. He testified that his actions were within the scope of his training and necessary to subdue a resisting suspect.
The trial, now in its second week, has heard conflicting accounts from witnesses and the complainant, a 28-year-old man who alleges Wong used excessive force during an arrest in the city's Downtown Eastside. The complainant testified that Wong struck him repeatedly with a baton and punched him in the face, resulting in a broken nose and concussion. However, Wong stated that the suspect was combative and refused to comply with commands, forcing him to escalate force.
Under cross-examination by Crown prosecutor Sarah Mitchell, Wong acknowledged that the suspect was handcuffed at the time of some strikes but argued that he continued to resist by kicking and spitting. "I followed my training and used the minimum force necessary to gain control," Wong said. The defense also presented body camera footage, which they claim supports Wong's version of events.
The trial has drawn attention from police accountability groups, with a small protest held outside the courthouse. The jury is expected to begin deliberations later this week. If convicted, Wong could face up to 10 years in prison. The VPD has not commented on the case, stating it is an internal matter.
