Assault charge laid against Alberta Mountie in connection with mental health arrest

RCMP hats can be seen in this undated file photo. (File)

An RCMP officer has been charged with assault in connection with an incident last year.

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On March 14, 2024, Fort Saskatchewan RCMP got a call about a mental health concern at a local residence.

When officers arrived, they placed a suicidal person under arrest under the Mental Health Act.

Police say an altercation occurred and one of the officers struck the prisoner, who was taken to hospital for treatment.

On May 2, the victim lodged a complaint with RCMP about the assault.

On Feb. 25 after an RCMP investigation, Const. Justin Forster was charged with assault causing bodily harm.

A court date is scheduled for April 3 in Fort Saskatchewan.

Forster has been placed on administrative duties, according to a news release.

In 2022 Forster was also charged with assault causing bodily harm as a result of an on-duty interaction with an alleged squatter.

He received a conditional discharge and probation on that charge.