ASIRT releases updates on two recent investigations

Feb 20, 2025

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has released updates on two investigations.

CPS officer charged with aggravated assault and careless use of a firearm

ASIRT was directed to investigate a Calgary Police Service officer regarding the discharge of his firearm during the arrest of a person.

The evidence gathered during ASIRT’s investigation provided reasonable grounds to believe offences had been committed. As is required by the Police Act, the investigation was forwarded to the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service (ACPS) to determine whether the evidence met the standard for prosecution.

Following a review of the investigation and having been advised that the ACPS was of the opinion that the evidence did meet their standard for prosecution, ASIRT Executive Director Michael Ewenson, KC determined that the involved officer should be charged. On Feb. 19, 2025, Christopher Huggins was charged with offences pursuant to Sec. 268 and Sec. 86(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada. He was released on an undertaking and is scheduled for first appearance on March 21, 2025 in the Alberta Court of Justice at Calgary.

As this matter is now before the courts, no further information will be released.

RCMP officer charged with assault causing bodily harm

ASIRT was directed to investigate an RCMP officer regarding the force he used against a person in custody on the Samson Cree First Nation.

The evidence gathered during ASIRT’s investigation provided reasonable grounds to believe an offence had been committed. As is required by the Police Act, the investigation was forwarded to the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service (ACPS) to determine whether the evidence met the standard for prosecution.

Following a review of the investigation and having been advised that the ACPS was of the opinion that the evidence did meet their standard for prosecution, ASIRT Executive Director Michael Ewenson, KC determined that the involved officer should be charged. On Feb. 18, 2025 Christopher Larsen was charged with an offence pursuant to sec. 267(b) of the Criminal Code of Canada. He was released on an appearance notice and is scheduled for first appearance in the Alberta Court of Justice at Wetaskiwin on Apr. 15, 2025.

ASIRT’s mandate is to effectively, independently and objectively investigate incidents involving Alberta’s police that have resulted in serious injury or death to any person, as well as serious or sensitive allegations of police misconduct.

NT5