Fort Vermilion RCMP launched the investigation on May 20 after a concerned parent reported their child had been struck with a belt while attending school, leaving the youth with bruising and red marks across his thigh. Article contentThe investigation was later taken over by the western Alberta district general investigation section, which, with assistance from Fort Vermilion RCMP, executed a search warrant at the school. Officers allegedly seized what police described as a machine belt, along with documents related to the school’s disciplinary practices. According to RCMP, investigators determined that corporal punishment using what was referred to as “the strap” was part of the disciplinary policies at Blumenort Mennonite School, Wilson Prairie Mennonite School and Tompkins Mennonite School. Police said the practice was outlined in a shared constitution that had been provided to and signed by parents.