REGINA — A member of the Estevan Police Service has received an absolute discharge in connection with an incident last year in Estevan.
Const. Vaughn Golden pleaded guilty to one count of assault on Oct. 14 in Regina Provincial Court. Three other charges were withdrawn: uttering threats, mischief and violating terms of his release conditions. The latter charge occurred after the original incident.
Golden received an absolute discharge after entering the plea, meaning he does not have a criminal record, nor is there any punishment, such as a fine, jail time or probation.
In an interview with SaskToday, Estevan Police Chief Jamie Blunden said the EPS executive team will have to make a decision on Golden’s future. They are seeking advice from legal counsel, and a decision should happen in the next week.
Golden remains on paid administrative leave as per the terms of the provincial Police Act.
Background: The provincial Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) announced late in 2024 that it had laid charges against Golden, after the EPS had notified SIRT of an allegation of interpersonal violence involving the member. The officer was arrested by SIRT investigators.
He was placed on non-uniform administrative duties by the EPS after his arrest.
As part of his release conditions, Golden was required to refrain from having contact with multiple named parties. On Dec. 22, the EPS notified SIRT that Golden was believed to have had contact with one of the individuals on the undertaking. Following a comprehensive review of the evidence gathered by both the EPS and SIRT, it was determined that reasonable grounds existed to believe Golden had committed an offence.
He was relieved of his duties and placed on paid leave at that time.
Golden made his first appearance in Estevan Provincial Court in January, and his matters have been back in court on several occasions.
