New Brunswick Public Prosecution Services

A Saint John police officer is facing assault charges following an investigation by the Serious Incident Response Team

In a press release issued Thursday morning, the Saint John Police Force said the officer has been charged with assault causing bodily harm and assault with a weapon.

In July 10, the Saint John police contacted the SiRT regarding the alleged force used by one of their officers during an arrest that took place on July 5.

According to the release, officers were responding to a motor vehicle collision on the Harbour Bridge when one of the vehicles involved fled the scene. A brief pursuit followed, ending in the Main Street North area.

The adult male driver was taken into custody, with several officers involved in the arrest. The Saint John police said the man sustained injuries and was taken to hospital afterward.

In a separate release issued Thursday, SiRT said it initially determined in August that the case did not meet its mandate after receiving additional information from police.

However, in early November, the New Brunswick Public Prosecution Services independently referred the incident to SiRT due to concerns about the officer’s alleged use of force. SiRT then launched a formal investigation.

Saint John police said the officer has since been reassigned to administrative duties pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings. A Police Act investigation will follow once the court process concludes.

The officer is scheduled to appear in Saint John provincial court on June 15, according to SiRT.