The military police oversight body of the country discovered shortcomings in the investigation of a sexual assault allegation against former senior military figure Dany Fortin, highlighting internal investigative failures rather than external influences. The chairperson of the Military Police Complaints Commission of Canada labeled the issues as “failures” and urged the military to address systemic deficiencies. The final report by watchdog chairperson Tammy Tremblay, released on Tuesday, emphasized that the investigation lacked thoroughness, supervisory oversight, and adherence to essential investigative principles.
This report coincides with ongoing criticism faced by the federal government over a proposed bill to remove the military’s authority to handle sexual assault cases, following a recommendation from former Supreme Court Justice Louise Arbour in 2022. Fortin, who was leading Canada’s COVID-19 vaccine logistics, faced allegations dating back to 1988 during his time at a military college. He vehemently denied the accusations and was ultimately cleared of sexual assault in a Quebec civilian court in 2022.
Fortin had filed a complaint with the Military Police Complaints Commission of Canada, alleging bias in the investigation conducted by the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service. The complaint highlighted concerns of being charged without sufficient evidence and suggested that external pressures influenced the investigation. The watchdog initiated a high-level investigation into Fortin’s claims due to their gravity and public interest.
Tremblay’s report outlined significant deficiencies in the conduct of investigators, including issues with witness interviews, inadequate supervision, and failures in case management. While the report identified shortcomings, it couldn’t definitively determine if these would have altered the decision to refer Fortin’s case to prosecutors. The watchdog issued 16 recommendations to address systemic weaknesses, emphasizing the need for improved documentation and oversight in military police investigations.
Fortin, in response to the findings, described his ordeal as deeply traumatic and expressed hope for institutional reform within the military police. He retired from the military in 2023 after reaching a settlement with military and government officials. The MPCC findings provided some validation and closure for Fortin after a prolonged legal battle.