Saskatoon police canine unit involved in several arrests over Easter weekend

The Saskatoon Police Service canine unit was involved in several arrests over the Easter long weekend. (Photo source: Saskatoon Police Service website)

The Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) canine unit was involved in several arrests over the Easter long weekend, including reports of a stolen vehicle and intimate partner violence.

SPS patrol officers initiated a traffic stop on April 3 around 2 a.m. for what was believed to be a stolen vehicle in the 3500 block of 33rd Street West.

Police claimed the man became combative after exiting the vehicle and tried to get back into his car. He was apprehended by members of the police dog unit and suffered a minor dog bite injury.

The vehicle did not end up being stolen, but officers located methamphetamine during a search.

As a result of the incident, a 34-year-old man was charged with obstruction of a peace officer and possession of a controlled substance.

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In a separate incident on April 6, officers received a report about a stolen SUV in the 300 block of Avenue U South around 7:30 p.m.

When officers arrived, they found the suspect still in the vehicle. After the man refused to exit the vehicle, a canine team arrived on scene and prompted the man to change his mind by taking a position in front of the vehicle.

The man was taken into custody and charges are pending, according to police.

Officers responded to a separate incident the same day around 10:10 p.m. at the 1000 block of Avenue K North.

It was for a 15-year-old boy who was wanted on outstanding warrants involving intimate partner violence.

Police said he was reported to be hiding in the basement of the home, but told officers he gave himself up after hearing that a canine team was being called in.

He is charged with mischief, two counts of assault, and two counts of uttering assault.