Inquiry ordered into allegations against Calgary police officers in 2008 arrest
CALGARY — Alberta’s justice minister has ordered an inquiry into how authorities responded to perjury and assault allegations stemming from an arrest involving two Calgary police officers, including one who would become president of the city’s police union.
The Law Enforcement Review Board is to examine whether there were any efforts to hinder public oversight of the officers who arrested Jason Cyrus Arkinstall during a traffic stop in August 2008.
“It’s critical to ensure that the public has confidence in Alberta’s police and civilian oversight bodies. Holding an inquiry will allow this case to be examined in full view of the public,” Justice Minister Kathleen Ganley said in a statement Wednesday.
Arkinstall, who was charged with uttering threats, was acquitted in 2011. The judge said in his written decision that Sgt. Les Kaminski and Const. Brant Derrick were not credible witnesses.