Months after Calgary police officer arrested for hit-and-run, impaired driving, CPS admits to charges

A high-ranking Calgary police officer was charged with drunk driving and hit-and-run nearly four months ago but despite other police chiefs releasing that type of information to the public, top cop Mark Neufeld did not.

Staff Sgt. Blake Hiebert faces charges of impaired driving and leaving the scene of an accident following an incident in Airdrie on May 9, 2020. He was off duty at the time of the alleged offence.

On that evening, Airdrie RCMP were called by residents after Hiebert allegedly crashed into a fence and a tree.

After the crash, Hiebert is accused of driving home. Shortly after, RCMP officers attended his house and demanded a breath sample.

CBC News received a tip about the charges which were then confirmed by Calgary police.

'Complicating factors'

In the last two years, CPS has issued statements about three different officers who were charged with drunk driving. And in several other cases, when officers were charged outside Calgary's jurisdiction, that information was also released to the public.

Police Chief Mark Neufeld did not explain why CPS did not disclose Hiebert's charges.

"There were a number of complicating factors that impacted the decision not to issue a news release in relation to this file," wrote Neufeld.

"The policy relating to naming officers charged in other jurisdictions is something that is currently under review by CPS."

Hiebert was not suspended but has been moved to an administrative role within the service.

The chief says CPS' policy relating to naming officers charged in other jurisdictions is something that is currently under review.

Neufeld also said Hiebert has the right to a fair trial, "as is any member of the public."