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Her claims have been the subject of numerous internal police disciplinary proceedings, as well as a $1.1 million lawsuit that continues to wind its way through court.

Five internal investigations

In Alberta, chiefs of police are responsible for officer discipline and decide whether to send allegations of misconduct to disciplinary hearings.

People who disagree with a chief’s decision can appeal to the civilian Law Enforcement Review Board. If the board finds an investigation was deficient, it can direct police chiefs to reexamine the case.

Sargent’s complaint has been the subject of five internal investigations — examining everything from whether the tactical team’s response was excessive to the note-keeping practices of specific officers.

In her most recent complaint, Sargent alleges the officers weren’t telling the truth when they claimed in their reports that they only handcuffed one of her arms, as well as “numerous other discrepancies in (their) reports that should be fully investigated.” Sargent maintains both arms were handcuffed — a detail she says is supported by at least one of two constables who entered her bedroom after the tactical team.

That constable told investigators he entered the bedroom and saw Sargent face down on the bed with a quilt covering her lower half, with her hands cuffed behind her back. He said the position was “degrading” given the number of male officers in the house.

The four officers involved in the case did not make reports or notes at the time of the incident, the review board decision adds.