ASIRT lays charge against RCMP officer following Valleyview investigation

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team has charged an RCMP officer following an investigation into an incident that occurred in Valleyview.

On Nov. 22, 2023, ASIRT was directed to investigate an incident involving a Valleyview RCMP officer that occurred on Nov. 10, 2023.

After completing its investigation, ASIRT found reasonable grounds to believe an offence had been committed. As required by the Police Act, ASIRT sent the file to the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service, which reviewed the evidence and determined whether the case met the standard for prosecution.

After reviewing the investigation and receiving an opinion from the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service, ASIRT’s acting executive director Matthew Block determined that the officer should be charged, in keeping with the authority delegated by the CEO of the Police Review Commission.

On June 24, 2026, Const. Ovidiu Haynes was arrested and charged with assault with a weapon, contrary to section 267(a) of the Criminal Code. He was released, with conditions. His first court appearance was scheduled for Aug. 6, 2026 at the Valleyview Court of Justice.

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

Questions about employment-related matters, including duty status and any Level 4 or Level 5 matters under the Police Act, should be directed to the police agency of jurisdiction.

ASIRT is part of the Police Review Commission, an independent civilian-led agency. ASIRT investigates potential criminal offences involving police across Alberta, including cases where the actions of a police officer may have resulted in serious injury or death. 

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