Const. David Wynn's death prompts review of Alberta bail hearings

The Alberta government is launching a formal review into how bail hearings are handled in light of the fatal shooting of an RCMP officer in January.

The review was recommended in a report detailing the involvement of the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service with Shawn Rehn, the man who shot and killed Const. David Wynn at a casino in St. Albert.

• Shawn Rehn, alleged shooter of St. Albert Mounties, had history of crime, drug use
• Const. David Wynn killing ignites debate over police officers at bail hearings

Although he had an extensive criminal record, Rehn was out on bail at the time of the shooting. A police officer — not a Crown prosecutor —  represented the Crown at his bail hearing.

Justice Minister Kathleen Ganley said Tuesday the review will look at who should attend bail hearings and what information should be presented.

"This is a system that ensures both the rights of those who ... face the state in terms of a prosecution and also ensures the safety of our communities and our police officers," Ganley said.

The person leading the review will be announced soon with recommendations expected by the end of 2015.

Wildrose Leader Brian Jean called on the government to take action now. He said judges should be responsible for bail hearings either in person or by phone. 

"The real issue is not the Crown prosecutor," he said. "It is the people that are granting the bail review and they need to do so under much more stringent circumstances."

Auxiliary Const. Derek Bond was also injured in the shooting that killed Wynn. Rehn was later found dead in a rural home.

Police officers will continue to represent the Crown at bail hearings until the review is complete.