A house party in mid-September 2024 has resulted in significant repercussions for the Saskatoon Police Service. The gathering, held at the home of a member of the Emergency Response Team (ERT), led to the suspension of five officers, including three from the tactical unit. Allegations of assault and professional misconduct involving a member of an outlaw motorcycle gang have emerged from the incident.

The party, which featured a hot tub and pool, included numerous off-duty officers of various ranks. Witnesses reported that alcohol was present and that members of the public mingled with the officers. An alleged physical altercation between an ERT member and a junior female officer reportedly occurred during the event. Witnesses described a confrontation where the male officer struck the female officer and wrestled her to the ground.

The situation escalated when the female officer's supervisor noticed bruising on her neck upon her return to work. Initially hesitant to speak, she eventually disclosed that she had been assaulted by a fellow officer. This prompted the involvement of the Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT), which investigates serious incidents involving police officers.

The internal investigation by the police's professional standards division and the external review by SIRT are still ongoing, nearly a year after the incident. The police service did not disclose the suspensions until November 2024, six weeks after the officers were placed on paid leave. Chief Cameron McBride confirmed the suspensions but did not provide specific details, stating that the events occurred while the officers were off duty.

In July 2025, one of the suspended officers was dismissed, but the police did not publicly comment on the termination. Chief McBride expressed his desire for the investigation to be resolved, stating, "It's been a long and challenging one, and one that I really, really look forward to having resolved."

The incident has created tension within the police force, with some officers expressing concern that the actions of a few do not reflect the values of the majority. Officers have voiced worries about the alleged assault and the implications for the police undercover program, fearing it may be compromised due to the presence of an outlaw motorcycle gang member at the party.

Sources indicate that the relationship between some ERT members and the gang member dates back several years, raising alarms about potential breaches of confidentiality. Officers have reported that the gang member openly identified himself at the party, further complicating the situation.

The controversy intensified when ERT members wore customized T-shirts with the slogan #Freeourboys2024 during a morning parade in December 2024. This act was perceived by some as an attempt to undermine the ongoing investigations and led to feelings of intimidation among female officers. Chief McBride acknowledged that the shirts "deeply offended" some members but emphasized the need to consider different perspectives.

As the investigations continue, concerns about the objectivity of SIRT have been raised, particularly due to the close ties between some investigators and the police management. The situation remains fluid, with many within the Saskatoon Police Service awaiting the outcome of the investigations.