Alberta's police watchdog has cleared RCMP officers of allegations of excessive force during an arrest in the small town of Cowley, Alta., in 2024. The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) concluded that the officers' use of force was justified given the circumstances of the incident.
Incident Details
The arrest occurred on June 15, 2024, when RCMP officers responded to a call about a disturbance at a residence in Cowley, located about 200 kilometers south of Calgary. Upon arrival, officers encountered a 35-year-old man who was reportedly acting erratically and refusing to comply with commands. The situation escalated, leading to a physical altercation during which officers used force to subdue the individual.
The man sustained injuries, including a broken nose and bruising, and was taken to hospital for treatment. Following the incident, the man filed a complaint alleging that officers used excessive force, prompting ASIRT to launch an investigation.
ASIRT Investigation
ASIRT reviewed police reports, witness statements, and video footage from the scene. The investigation found that the man had been aggressive and had resisted arrest, forcing officers to use reasonable force to gain control. The watchdog determined that the officers' actions were within the bounds of their training and legal authority.
In a statement, ASIRT said: "The evidence does not support the allegation of excessive force. The officers acted in accordance with their duties and used only the force necessary to protect themselves and the public."
Reactions
The cleared officers have returned to active duty, while the man involved has not publicly commented on the ruling. The RCMP expressed confidence in the investigation's outcome, emphasizing their commitment to accountability.
This case highlights the rigorous oversight of police conduct in Alberta, where ASIRT investigates all serious incidents involving law enforcement. The decision has been welcomed by some community members who support the police, while others remain concerned about the use of force in mental health-related calls.
