Investigation into death of young Prince Albert boy finds fault with police response

“The Public Complaints Commission extends its condolences to Tanner Brass’s family for the loss of their child. We appreciate the cooperation of the family of Tanner Brass and the Prince Albert Police Service throughout our investigation into this tragic death,” Public Complaints Commission Chair Michelle Ouellette said. “The Public Complaints Commission found neglect of duty by officers of the Prince Albert Police Service in its investigation and has submitted its findings to the Chief to impose appropriate discipline.”

Tanner Brass. (Facebook)

The Commission is a five-person, non-police body appointed by the government. It is responsible for ensuring that both the public and police receive a fair and thorough investigation of a complaint against the municipal police or an investigation of a possible criminal offence by a municipal police officer.

Report findings:

– the young child was, at all relevant times, vulnerable and in danger while left inside the residence with the father.

– the status of the child was unknown until 10:40 am when the police received a call from the father about a deceased infant.

– Upon arresting the mother, both officers indicated in their reports that she did not mention any concerns about the child’s safety at the scene; this is supported by an audio recording. However, it is unclear if either officer asked for specifics.

– when police initially arrived at the scene, the mother indicated she had no place to go and no immediate ride. Officers advised her since there were no available places to take her, as the shelter was full, the only option would be to spend a few hours at the PAPS detention center, but that it was up to her if she wished to do so.

– at 5:58a.m., the mother agreed to go to police cells and got into the backseat of the police vehicle. Although it had been stated previously the mother was handcuffed, in-camera video from the car shows she was not

– It has been stated that, while lodged at the detention centre, the mother tried repeatedly to tell PAPS police officers that the child was in danger, but they ignored her or advised it was not their job to help her. A review of the detention centre and cellblock audio and video does not substantiate this version of events.

– the two officers should have entered the home to ensure the safety of the child, and the two officers were incorrect in their belief that they required a warrant to enter the residence.

– The totality of the circumstances demonstrates a series of compounded failures by the two officers when they had a legal duty to investigate the 911 call.

– No neglect of duty is identified regarding other Subject Officers.

– The Crown did not recommend a criminal charge against the subject officers as, at autopsy, the pathologist was unable to determine the child’s time of death during the 3:00 am to 10:40 am window.

– the father, through his counsel, declined to be interviewed by the PCC or to provide evidence on this point.

“The PCC’s investigation has been completed, and we have concluded our file. In accordance with the Act, the matter is remitted to the Chief of PAPS for the imposition of any discipline that may be appropriate.”

The report’s full findings can be found here.

Response to the incident

The response by police to the West Hill home sparked criticism from the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN). “Blatant discrimination” and “systemic racism” were the words used by leaders at a press conference.

Chief Bobby Cameron demanded change in the justice system and the local police force, explaining how the child’s mother pleaded with officers on multiple occasions at the home, in the police car, and in the prison cell to watch over her baby.

Cameron added if Police Chief Bergen was not willing to make changes, he should resign saying “if you don’t want to do something right for the people of Prince Albert, which are First Nations, then get the hell out of here.”

Both the FSIN and PAGC carried out their own investigation and said the mother was fleeing a domestic violence situation. When officers arrived, they assumed her fear was alcohol-related and arrested her for intoxication, ignoring her pleas for help.

In response to the latest report, a spokesperson for the FSIN informed paNOW a press conference will take place on Friday.

A picture taken of FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron during a press conference in March, 2022. (FSIN/ Livestream)

The Prince Albert Police Service responded a week after the FSIN’s press conference, suspending two members with pay from active duty.

This is a developing story and paNOW is awaiting a response from the Prince Albert Police Service.

The father of the young child was charged with second-degree murder and is scheduled to be tried next February at Court of King’s Bench in Prince Albert.

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panews@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow

by Nigel Maxwell

Investigation into death of young Prince Albert boy finds fault with police response

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