Sexualized Conduct in Police Workplaces
The Police Complaint Commissioner has initiated a systemic investigation into how municipal police departments and designated units in British Columbia prevent, investigate, and address workplace‑related sexualized conduct by police officers.
Purpose of the Investigation
The goals of this systemic investigation are to:
- Examine potential patterns and contributing factors to sexualized conduct by police officers in workplace or related professional settings, specifically involving other officers, civilian employees, recruits, and potential recruits; and
- Identify meaningful and practical systems-level recommendations to prevent sexualized conduct and organizational responses, including processes under Part 11 of the Police Act.
This systemic investigation differs from individual complaint investigations, which focus on specific incidents and the conduct of particular officers. Instead, this systemic investigation looks more broadly at systemic issues, structures, and practices that may contribute to or fail to adequately address sexualized conduct.
Terms of Reference
The full Terms of Reference for this investigation, including its scope and the types of evidence to be gathered, are available here.
Trauma-Informed Approach and Participation
The OPCC is committed to conducting this investigation in a trauma‑informed manner.
While the OPCC welcomes and values information from individuals who have experienced workplace‑related sexualized conduct involving a police officer, participation is entirely voluntary. No individual will be compelled to provide a statement or participate in an interview about their experiences.
Current or former police officers or civilian employees of a B.C. municipal police department or designated unit who wish to contact the investigation team may:
- Email: systemic@opcc.bc.ca
Reporting
At the conclusion of the investigation, the Police Complaint Commissioner will deliver and make public a report setting out findings and any recommendations. Status updates will be shared as the investigation progresses.
The OPCC will monitor responses to recommendations and will publish public updates regarding implementation and progress.