The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has concluded that a series of errors led to a nine-year-old girl being bitten on the leg by a Calgary police service dog on February 12, 2025. In a report released Wednesday, ASIRT described the incident as a 'confluence of errors' involving miscommunication and procedural failures.
Details of the Incident
The girl was bitten while police were executing a search warrant at a residence in northeast Calgary. According to ASIRT, the dog was deployed without proper assessment of the situation, and officers failed to ensure the area was clear of civilians. The child sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at a hospital.
Key Findings
- Lack of coordination between officers led to the dog being released in an area where a child was present.
- Inadequate training on the use of police dogs in dynamic environments was identified.
- The incident was not immediately reported to supervisors, delaying medical attention.
ASIRT recommended policy changes, including enhanced training and clearer protocols for canine units. The Calgary Police Service has accepted the findings and stated it will implement the recommendations.
Broader Implications
This case highlights ongoing concerns about the use of police dogs in urban settings. Civil liberties advocates have called for stricter oversight, while police emphasize the dogs' role in public safety. The girl's family has expressed disappointment but hopes the review will prevent future incidents.
