An adjudicator has determined that three constables from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in British Columbia engaged in discreditable conduct by posting racist, sexist, and homophobic comments in a group chat and on police computer systems. Louise Morel, the adjudicator, ruled that Coquitlam officers Mersad Mesbah, Ian Solven, and Philip Dick failed to treat individuals with respect and courtesy. While she found them in violation of the RCMP code of conduct, she dismissed other allegations related to workplace harassment. The case has drawn significant attention since CBC News reported on the officers' messages in September 2024. In an email during the conduct hearing, Supt. Darren Carr, the officer in charge of the Coquitlam detachment, described the officers' actions as "a campaign of hate." The allegations surfaced after a fellow officer reported what he deemed "atrocious" behavior from his colleagues. Morel stated that a reasonable person would find the comments not only disrespectful but also damaging to public confidence in the RCMP. During a nearly three-hour session, Morel reviewed various messages that she labeled as racist, sexist, and homophobic. She expressed disbelief that anyone could consider comments about a vulnerable female being raped or derogatory references to an RCMP unit as acceptable. "I fail to see how a reasonable person in society would find comments about a vulnerable female being raped by five dudes, referring to an RCMP unit as the penis-touching team, or a victim of a criminal sexual assault as a dumb girl, can be acceptable professional or even excusable," she said. In her examination of the messages, Morel highlighted specific instances from Dick, who referred to individuals as "the big turban man" and "the useless short tubby Asian." Mesbah was noted for using the term "retarded" in his messages. Morel emphasized that the content of the messages reflected a mindset that undermined the public's right to fair treatment. She stated, "I find that the messages are clearly racist, sexist, and homophobic, given the insulting nature related to a person's race, color, ethnic origin, sex, or sexual orientation." She also pointed out that the officers' claims of frustration, dark humor, or sarcasm do not excuse their behavior, as police are expected to uphold a higher standard than the general public. Next week, lawyers will convene to discuss potential consequences for the officers, which may include dismissal. All three officers remain suspended with pay, and their duty status is under ongoing review. Morel indicated that she would provide a more detailed written decision in the future.
B.C. RCMP Officers Found to Have Violated Conduct Code
Canada News6 hrs ago
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