A review ordered after the fatal shooting of a Mountie in Alberta suggests police officers should not have to stand in at bail hearings that immediately follow an arrest.
The review says Crown prosecutors should instead be present at all such hearings.
The Alberta government says it is already acting on several of the review’s 31 recommendations, but adds it will need to consult with police and the courts before moving forward with others.
READ MORE: St. Albert MP pushes forward ‘Dave Wynn’s Law’ one year after constable’s murder
The province asked for the review following the shooting death of RCMP Const. David Wynn outside an Edmonton-area casino in January 2015.
The shooter, Shawn Rehn, had a lengthy history of criminal and violent behaviour, but was free after a bail hearing where a police officer was present.
READ MORE: St. Albert RCMP shooter Shawn Rehn had ‘incredibly complex criminal history’
That raised the question of whether Crown prosecutors, with more courtroom experience, should attend all bail hearings.
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