Sexual assault and child sexual abuse charges laid against a former volunteer with the Fredericton Police Force Auxiliary will be withdrawn, according to the police force. Robert Hartlen was arrested on March 14, 2025, following an investigation by the Fredericton Police Force’s Special Crimes Unit. He was charged with sexual assault and two counts of possessing child sexual abuse and exploitation material. Fredericton police said Thursday that the New Brunswick Crown Prosecutor’s Office has advised that the charges against Hartlen will be withdrawn following a post-charge approval reassessment. “We respect the Crown’s obligation to proceed only where there is a reasonable likelihood of conviction. While this outcome is not what we anticipated, we accept the Crown’s decision,” said the police force in a statement. “We also recognize the impact that cases like this have on victims, families, and the broader community.” Fredericton police said the matter isn’t connected to any other previous or current investigations or charges and doesn’t impact any other files. “As our investigation is complete, the Fredericton Police Force will not be commenting further,” the police force added. Police previously said Hartlen was a volunteer member of the Fredericton Police Force Auxiliary between 2010 and 2015, but the alleged offences didn’t happen during that time. Auxiliary constables with the Fredericton Police Force are sworn in as peace officers and have the powers and authority of a peace officer, but only when accompanied by and under the supervision of a regular police officer. For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
