The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) is investigating a potential police misconduct case after a female suspect was bitten by a police service dog during a break-and-enter investigation at Glamorgan School in Calgary. The incident occurred on May 3, 2026, and the suspect was subsequently taken to Alberta Children's Hospital for treatment.
Details of the Incident
According to ASIRT, Calgary police officers responded to an alarm at Glamorgan School shortly before 4:30 a.m. on Sunday. Upon arrival, they discovered signs of forced entry, including shards of glass and a smashed window, prompting them to call for a police dog team. During the search, officers located a female suspect. ASIRT stated that officers withdrew and then re-entered the school with the police dog to continue searching. The dog eventually located the suspect and bit her. Paramedics transported the suspect to Alberta Children's Hospital, though it remains unclear whether the suspect is a minor. ASIRT referred to her as a young woman, while Alberta Children's Hospital typically does not treat adults.
Investigation and Public Appeal
The Police Review Commission directed ASIRT to investigate the matter as a Level 1 incident under the Police Act, which includes cases involving serious injury or death, as well as serious or sensitive allegations against police. ASIRT is seeking witnesses or anyone with relevant video recordings. Individuals with information are urged to contact ASIRT at 780-644-1483.
Previous Incident Involving Police Dog
This incident comes a day after ASIRT absolved a Calgary police officer for using a police dog to arrest a youth offender more than two years ago. In that case, the youth suffered bloody injuries to his neck and left ear. The arrest was part of a project targeting robberies by underage youth. On November 16, 2023, officers visited the home of the offender, who fled twice. After warnings, the police dog was deployed, biting the youth on the head and neck, leaving scars. ASIRT exonerated the officer, concluding that the search was valid and not a marked departure from the standard of care. The author stated, "While the use of the police dog did result in the youth suffering injuries, this was an unfortunate and unintended consequence of a lawful use of the canine."
