The Prince Albert Police Service has charged one of their own in connection to an in-custody death.

A news release issued Wednesday morning by Interim Police Chief Patrick Nogier says a 21-year member of P.A. Police is charged with criminal negligence causing death and failing to provide the necessities of life.

On November 7th, 2021 33-year-old Saul Laliberte died while in the detention facility at the Prince Albert Police Service. His death was treated as an in-custody death and investigated by the Saskatoon Police Service. The Prince Albert Police Service was notified in June that based on that investigation, the Crown was recommending charges of criminal negligence causing death and for failing to provide the necessities of life.

Saying they are dedicated to transparency, fairness and justice, Chief Nogier says, “While the Criminal Code charges are awaiting completion through the judicial process, the decision to relieve from duty was made with the aim of maintaining public trust. The Prince Albert Police Service places great importance on public confidence and continually strives to uphold the trust citizens of Prince Albert have placed in our officers.”  He also said that they are reviewing their internal policies and protocols.

The officer involved has been relieved from active duty pending the outcome of court proceedings and will be in Prince Albert Court on July 25th.