By Sheldon Spackman

November 2023 Incident

Charges withdrawn for man accused in alleged Red Deer assault

May 29, 2024 | 5:05 PM

Charges have now been withdrawn for a central Alberta man faced with multiple counts following a heavy police presence in south Red Deer last year.

Derrick Phazer Whitford, 26, a resident of the O’Chiese First Nation, had all four counts against him withdrawn during his trial in Rocky Mountain House Court of Justice on May 27, 2024.

Those counts included pointing a firearm, assault with a weapon, and two counts of fail to comply with a release order.

According to the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service (ACPS), Crown prosecutors continue to evaluate evidence in light of the prosecution standard that the matter is in the public interest and there be a reasonable likelihood of conviction.

However, if at any time following the laying of charges the Crown prosecutor becomes aware there is insufficient evidence to proceed, the charges may be stayed, withdrawn or downgraded.

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“In this matter, the Crown determined the file did not meet the standard for prosecution and charges were withdrawn on May 27. As the accused has other charges before the court, no further comment will be made,” reads a statement from ACPS.

It was on Nov. 22, 2023, at 11:45 a.m., when Red Deer RCMP received a report of an assault that took place in an apartment at 3047 49 Avenue in Red Deer. Upon initial investigation, RCMP determined the suspect was a known offender with multiple warrants for serious violent offences. Red Deer RCMP contained the residence and issued an advisory to area residents.

Red Deer RCMP, with the assistance of the RCMP Emergency Response Team, safely took the suspect into custody at a neighbouring apartment.

The suspect was originally charged with:

• Assault causing bodily harm
• Assault
• Fail to appear for court (x3)
• Mischief.

Additionally, RCMP say they executed over 20 warrants out of Rocky Mountain House, Mayerthorpe, and Edmonton for serious offences including pointing a firearm, aggravated assault, assault causing, administering a noxious substance, unlawful confinement and many more.

Related: Trial scheduled for man charged in Red Deer assault

Related: Charges laid after heavy police presence in south Red Deer Wednesday

Related: Red Deer RCMP advise of heavy police presence

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