Calgary police stand behind 3 'excellent officers' charged with kidnapping, assault

For the latest developments, see:ASIRT called in to review Calgary investigation into officers now charged with kidnapping, assault

Three veteran Calgary police officers have been charged with kidnapping and assault after an investigation into a 2010 incident involving at-risk youth.

Det. Reagan Hossack, who has been on the force for 18 years, has been charged with kidnapping.

Sgt. Mark Schwartz, who has 16 years on the force, and 25-year-memberDet. PaulRubnerhave both been charged withkidnapping and assault.

Police say the three members were part of the vice unit at the time.

Theypicked up a man on Jan. 20, 2010, whothey believed had information related to an investigation into at-risk youth. Police believed that man might have information on a young woman being sexually exploited.

Theofficers are alleged to have driven the man around for about 20 minutes while assaulting him. That man died several months later in circumstances not related to the alleged assault. He did not make a report to police on the incident.

Charges, not convictions

Acting Supt. Don Coleman says he fully stands behind the officers involved and the process.

"It's not convictions, it's charges, so these are allegations, and then we will support the process once the matter goes before the courts," Coleman told reporters at a news conference Wednesday.

"I know these officers personally. I have worked around them. They are excellent officers and incredible people and they really have served the public well. They are some of the most dedicated and committed people you will ever want to meet."

The professional standards section of the Calgary Police Service received a complaint in June of 2015 from a former officerwho was present at the time of the alleged incident but has since retired.

The three officers are now on administrative leave for seven days. Court dates have not yet been set.

Coleman said he was not aware of any other caseof a kidnapping chargeagainst a Calgary police officer.

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