A Saint John police officer has been reassigned while the Serious Incident Response Team investigates allegations of assault during a recent arrest.

The Saint John Police handed the case over to the independent agency following a formal complaint filed by a suspect who claims an officer injured him.

The Arrest in the North End

The incident began on May 27, 2026. At around 10:41 p.m., officers tried to stop a man riding a motorized bicycle in the north end of Saint John. The man fled, leading officers on a brief foot chase before they caught him.

Police arrested the man for fleeing from police, resisting arrest, and possession of a controlled substance.

The Formal Complaint

On June 30, 2026, the accused man filed a complaint with the New Brunswick Police Commission. He alleges an officer assaulted him during the arrest and caused an injury. The commission suspended the standard conduct complaint process to allow the Serious Incident Response Team to take over.

Police Leadership Responds

The police force reassigned the officer involved until the investigation concludes.

Acting Chief Neal Fowler addressed the situation directly. “The Saint John Police considers complaints involving the use of force serious and we are confident that SiRT will conduct a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation,” Fowler stated.

Understanding the Investigation

The Serious Incident Response Team operates independently of local police forces. The agency investigates matters involving death, serious injury, sexual assault, domestic violence, and other significant public interest cases arising from police actions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Serious Incident Response Team?

The Serious Incident Response Team is an independent agency that investigates serious incidents involving police officers to ensure transparency and accountability.

Why was the officer reassigned?

The police force reassigned the officer as a standard procedure while the independent investigation takes place.

Where did the initial arrest happen?

The arrest took place in the north end of Saint John after police pursued a man on a motorized bicycle.