Police chief launches formal probe into arrest photo posted online
Edmonton police Chief Dale Mcfee has ordered a Professional Standards Branch (PSB) investigation after a picture was posted online of two officers posing and smiling with a shirtless man under arrest.
Const. Mike Roblin posted the photo to Instagram, showing two officers with the man in handcuffs in between, his face scribbled out.
“This fine young man was so thrilled with the service we provided he wanted to commemorate the moment with a picture. Just kidding, he was so high he thought he was on mars #summertimepolicing #dontdodrugskids,” read the caption accompanying the photo.
Edmonton police initially said the incident would be investigated by Roblin’s supervisors.
However, city police spokeswoman Patrycja Mokrzan said Mcfee became aware of the post on Monday and immediately determined the Professional Standards Branch would investigate it.
Critics previously called for PSB to take over the investigation, saying the photo was stigmatizing to individuals suffering from addictions.
“It’s believed that another member took the photo, which is also part of the investigation,” Mokrzan said in an email statement. “Also, PSB is attempting to contact the affected person, so they can be a meaningful participant in the process.”
Mokrzan said it is city police policy to name officers only if criminal charges are laid or if the investigation goes to a public disciplinary hearing.