Edmonton Police Constable Alexander Doduk was found not guilty on June 12, 2025, of assault with a weapon and assault causing bodily harm stemming from a 2019 incident involving a physical altercation with Justin LaFrance. The case originated from an arrest on November 26, 2019, after Doduk intervened in a dispute over property damage, which escalated into a violent confrontation. The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) investigated the use of force, focusing on Doduk’s baton use, leading to charges. The jury’s decision highlights the complexities faced by law enforcement in volatile situations and concludes a high-profile trial scrutinized for police conduct and the extent of authorized force.
The incident that led to the charges against Constable Alexander Doduk occurred on the evening of November 26, 2019. Doduk responded to a call regarding a dispute involving alleged property damage, where Justin LaFrance was reportedly involved. During his intervention, the situation escalated rapidly, resulting in a physical altercation between Doduk and LaFrance. It was during this confrontation that Doduk used his baton, a standard-issue police tool, which subsequently became the focal point of the investigation and legal proceedings.
Investigation and Charges
Following the incident, the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT), an independent agency tasked with investigating incidents involving serious or fatal injury resulting from police action, launched a formal inquiry into the use of force by Constable Doduk. The investigation examined whether the use of the baton was justifiable under the circumstances or if it constituted assault with a weapon and assault causing bodily harm. After a thorough review of witness statements, video evidence, and expert testimonies, charges were laid against Doduk in relation to the events of that night.
Trial Proceedings
The trial garnered significant attention due to public concern about police use of force and accountability. Throughout the proceedings, the defense argued that Doduk acted within the legal boundaries and protocols required in law enforcement, asserting that his actions were necessary to control a volatile situation and protect public safety. The prosecution, however, emphasized that the force used was excessive and not justified by the circumstances described.
Jury Verdict and Implications
On June 12, 2025, the jury delivered a verdict of not guilty on all charges against Constable Alexander Doduk. The decision reflects the jury’s assessment that the evidence did not meet the burden of proof required for a conviction, recognizing the complexities officers face in high-pressure incidents. This outcome underscores the challenges in adjudicating cases involving police conduct, where split-second decisions must be made in unpredictable and potentially dangerous scenarios.
Broader Context and Public Reaction
The acquittal has sparked diverse reactions within the community. Supporters of the Edmonton Police Service have expressed relief and reaffirmed trust in the judgment of law enforcement officers acting in the line of duty. Conversely, advocates for police reform and some community members have called for continued scrutiny and ongoing dialogue about the standards for police use of force to prevent future confrontations escalating to violence.
Conclusion
The verdict in the case of Constable Alexander Doduk concludes a lengthy and high-profile legal process, bringing closure to a case that highlighted critical issues around policing practices, accountability, and the fine line officers navigate between enforcement and excessive force. Moving forward, both law enforcement and the public continue to grapple with balancing officer safety with civil rights and community trust.
The verdict in the case of Constable Alexander Doduk marks the conclusion of a complex legal process centered on the use of force by police officers in challenging situations. The not guilty decision underscores the difficulties in determining legal responsibility in incidents where law enforcement must make rapid decisions under pressure. While the trial has provided resolution for those directly involved, it also reinforces the ongoing need for transparent policies, thorough investigations, and open community discussions to enhance trust and accountability in policing. As the conversation around police conduct continues, stakeholders are encouraged to work collaboratively toward solutions that protect both public safety and civil liberties.
