The Masset RCMP detachment has been advised there will be no criminal charges laid against one of its officers in connection with allegations of assault with a weapon, says Sgt. Jim Vardy.
The investigation was launched four months ago after the RCMP member arrested a man who had been kicked out of a licenced establishment. Prince George regional crown counsel reviewed a report from a Prince Rupert investigator into the use of pepper spray, taser and baton. The report included eyewitness accounts of the incident, which took place in the early morning of Nov. 4 in Masset.
Regional crown counsel advised that the available evidence did not meet the crown's charge assessment standards and a charge was not approved. Crown counsel cited differences in witness accounts of the incident.
While a criminal investigation has been concluded, an internal RCMP review of the case continues. The circumstances will be reviewed by a senior RCMP officer from Terrace to examine the conduct of the officer involved. The results of the review will be forthcoming in the near future.