Former officer receives community sentences for drug charges

A former RCMP officer in Corner Brook, Michael Hann, has received community sentences for drug-related offenses. On Tuesday, a court sentenced him to two consecutive six-month periods of community service instead of jail time. Hann faced charges for possession of cocaine with intent to sell and unauthorized computer use. Although he initially pleaded not guilty, he later changed his plea to guilty for the lesser charge of cocaine possession. The charge related to breach of trust was dropped. His sentencing includes terms of house arrest and community service. He must stay on his property unless it is for medical needs or family emergencies. He is also required to avoid alcohol and drugs. The investigation began in February 2023, involving the RCMP and a task force in Newfoundland and Labrador. This operation, called Project Bliss, included tracking Hann's communications and interactions with known drug traffickers. Court documents revealed that Hann allowed an undercover officer to store cocaine on his property. During the sentencing, Justice Garrett Handrigan commented on Hann's misuse of police resources, noting he accessed data on 15 investigations related to drug trafficking. There was, however, no evidence that he shared this information. Hann expressed regret for his actions, stating that he felt shame for letting down the police force and his family. He resigned from his police position in 2023 after serving since 2007.