LPS OFFICER FACING CHARGE IN RELATION TO ON-DUTY INCIDENT

LONDON, ON (October 2, 2026) – A London Police Service (LPS) officer has been charged following an investigation by the LPS Major Crime Section into an incident that occurred during an arrest earlier this year.

On April 29, 2026, shortly before 2 a.m., a 33-year-old woman was placed under arrest by LPS officers.

Following her arrest, Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray was deployed. The use of OC spray in Ontario is subject to mandatory use-of-force reporting requirements and a subsequent review process.

During that review, concerns were identified regarding the circumstances surrounding the use of force. As a result, the matter was referred to members of the LPS Major Crime Section to investigate possible criminal conduct arising from the use of the OC spray.

Following the investigation, Constable Brandon Mihalides, 29, of London, has been charged with one count of assault with a weapon and has been reassigned to non-operational administrative duties.

Policing depends on public trust and confidence. Maintaining that trust requires police services to have effective systems of oversight and accountability, and to ensure that when concerns regarding police conduct are identified, they are addressed appropriately, transparently and thoroughly.

Accountability is a fundamental principle of policing and public service. Our community rightly expects police officers to exercise their authorities professionally and lawfully. It also expects its police service to identify concerns when they arise, examine the evidence objectively and take appropriate action where warranted.

As this matter is now before the courts, no further information will be provided at this time.

The accused is scheduled to attend court on December 30, 2026, in relation to the charge.

Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to call the London Police Service at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information can also be sent in online anonymously to London Middlesex Crime Stoppers.  

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