Prince Albert Police Service facing civil lawsuit from grieving mother

By Nigel Maxwell

One day after a man received a 16-year sentence for the beating death of his infant child, the lawyer for the baby’s mother confirmed she is pursuing legal action against the Prince Albert Police Service.

Eleanor Sunchild represents Kyla Frenchman in the case.

On Feb. 10, 2022, the morning of young Tanner Brass’ death, police had been called to the West Hill home twice and failed to check on the welfare of the child. After the mother was taken away to a police cell, Kaij Brass spanked his child repeatedly, hitting him multiple times in the chest and head.

One of the questions posed by the Crown on Monday was if young Tanner could have been saved if an ambulance arrived sooner. According to facts read in court, the father only called 911 after going to sleep and awaking five hours later to find his son still in distress.

“The Prince Albert Police Service has been receptive and open and that’s all I can say at the moment,” Sunchild said, confirming legal discussions are active.

She did, however, note her belief that police leaders realized they have to change how they deal with situations of domestic violence.

Kaij Brass being escorted inside Prince Albert’s Court of King’s Bench. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

“Especially when there’s children at risk,” she said, noting Tanner was still alive when police returned to the home.

On Monday, Sunchild listened to the proceedings by phone and acknowledged she was unaware Kaij Brass was pleading guilty to manslaughter. She quickly added she was confident all the circumstances related to the tragic death were taken into consideration.

“The sentence was very appropriate. The facts were horrendous. I’ve never heard a case like that regarding the death of a child,” she said.

Tanner’s mother was absent from Monday’s sentencing hearing and there was no victim impact statement provided. Sunchild confirmed Frenchman is still very much healing from the death of her son.

“For her, it’s very private and confidential and she has no comment,” the lawyer said.

Following the death of Tanner Brass, the two responding police officers were placed on suspension. A written statement was provided to paNOW by Prince Albert Police Chief Patrick Nogier

“The Prince Albert Police Service recognizes the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the recent sentencing of Kaij Brass and the findings by the Provincial Complaints Commission concerning two of our officers. We understand the profound impact these events have had on all involved, particularly the victims and their families,” Nogier’s statement read.

“During this challenging period, we remain committed to engaging in constructive dialogue with Kyla Frenchman and her family. Our aim is to foster understanding and rebuild trust within the community we are privileged to serve. The Prince Albert Police Service is committed to reflecting on our practices and seeking meaningful improvements in how we operate.

“Out of respect for the difficult times faced by the families involved, the Prince Albert Police Service will refrain from making any further comments at this point. We extend our thoughts to everyone affected and reaffirm our commitment to accountability and transparency within our community.”

Nogier did not provide comment on the status of the two officers’ employment.

In addition to the coroner’s investigation, the Saskatchewan Public Complaints Commission conducted their own investigation and a report was released last May.

Among the report’s findings was that the young child was, at all relevant times, vulnerable and in danger while left inside the residence with the father.

The report also stated the two officers should have entered the home to ensure the safety of the child, and were incorrect in their belief that they required a warrant to do so.