Saskatoon police briefs: man arrested for allegedly assaulting police officer

A Saskatoon man who was charged with distracted driving, obstructing and assaulting a police officer had his car impounded, police say.

The 46-year-old man is facing several charges following an incident where a police officer was assaulted during a traffic stop on Aug. 16.

Police reported that around 10 p.m., an officer witnessed the male driver of an SUV using his cell phone while driving on 8th St. and Cumberland Ave.

A traffic stop was attempted, however, the driver initially refused to stop. Police said he did pull over a few blocks away, but the man refused to provide information to the officer and tried to drive away again.

During the traffic stop, the driver attempted to open his vehicle door, striking the officer in the face, causing a minor injury.  A second officer arrived on scene and helped in arresting the driver.

Police say the man faces charges of assaulting and obstructing a Peace Officer, failing to stop, distracted driving and failing to produce a driver’s license.  The man’s vehicle was also impounded for seven days.

Man arrested for stealing a vehicle, possessing weapons and drugs

A 28-year-old Saskatoon man is facing charges for possessing bear spray, cocaine and an airsoft firearm, following a traffic stop in a Saskatoon parking lot.

According to police, on Monday at around 10:40 p.m., an officer identified a Mitsubishi that had been reported stolen in a restaurant parking lot in the 2200 block of 22nd St. W.

A second officer arrived on scene, and a high-risk traffic stop was conducted.  Inside the vehicle, police located an airsoft firearm, bear spray and 4.48 grams of cocaine.

The driver is now facing charges including possessing a weapon dangerous to the public peace, carrying a concealed weapon and possession of cocaine.  He was also found to be breaching court conditions.