B.C. police watchdog launches systemic probe into handling of sexual misconduct cases

British Columbia’s police watchdog has launched a provincewide review into how municipal departments handle sexual misconduct allegations involving officers, citing concerns about recurring patterns and oversight.

Prabhu Rajan, head of the Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner, said the investigation will examine internal processes used when departments investigate their own members. He said sexual misconduct in policing workplaces can undermine operational effectiveness and public trust.

According to a statement from the commissioner’s office, the probe is the first “systemic investigation” launched since amendments to the Police Act in 2024 granted the agency authority to review broader policing practices beyond individual complaints. The office said such investigations are designed to identify patterns, risks and institutional practices across departments.

Rajan said past investigations have identified sexualized conduct as a recurring issue, with some cases raising concerns about predatory behaviour by officers in positions of authority or supervision. The review will assess how municipal police agencies respond to, investigate and discipline such cases.

The commissioner’s office said the investigation is underway and a final report is expected by April 2027.