An Edmonton Police Service (EPS) officer’s trial has started over a 2019 incident where he was caught on video allegedly beating a man with a baton.
Const. Alexander Doduk’s trial started on Monday on charges of assault with a weapon and assault causing bodily harm.
Construction worker Justin LeFrance flagged down an officer when he heard a window breaking at the Army and Navy store at 97 Street and 103A Avenue. Doduk then proceeded to tackle and handcuff the alleged vandal, at which point LeFrance attempted to deescalate the situation, viewing the experience as “really excessive for a broken window.” At this point, Doduk then turned and moved towards LeFrance.
Another video, taken after the vandal was in handcuffs, shows LeFrance on his knees with Doduk holding one of his arms. Doduk then appears to punch LeFrance, before taking out his baton and beating LeFrance around nine times. LeFrance was then arrested and charged with assaulting a police officer.
A forensics officer photographed his injuries, including upper body bruising, a broken nose, fractured rib, chipped tooth and black eye, as well as post-traumatic stress.
The Crown’s opening statement included stating that the force used was unjustified, nor did Doduk have grounds to arrest LeFrance.
LeFrance’s charges were ultimately dropped.
Doduk is not in custody and remains an active Edmonton police officer.
