THE BC Prosecution Service (BCPS) announced on Tuesday that charges of assault with a weapon, attempting to obstruct justice, and dangerous driving have been approved against Vancouver Police Constable Jonathan Kempton in connection with the arrest of a shoplifting suspect on May 9, 2019, in Vancouver.

An information charging Kempton with two counts of assault with a weapon, one count of attempting to obstruct justice, and one count of dangerous driving was sworn on April 6 under Provincial Court file number 261970. The first appearance on this matter is scheduled for May 4 in Vancouver Provincial Court.

The charges were approved by an experienced Crown Counsel with no prior or current connection with the officer, the BCPS said.