In a recent development, an RCMP adjudicator concluded that three constables in British Columbia exhibited disrespectful behavior by posting racist, sexist, and homophobic remarks in a group chat with fellow officers and on police computer terminals. The adjudicator, Louise Morel, determined that Coquitlam constables Mersad Mesbah, Ian Solven, and Philip Dick breached the RCMP code of conduct and engaged in discreditable conduct with their comments. However, Morel dismissed other allegations related to workplace harassment in the case that came to light following a report by CBC News in September 2024.
During the code of conduct hearing, Supt. Darren Carr, the head of Coquitlam RCMP, described the officers’ actions as “a campaign of hate.” The allegations against Solven, Dick, and Mesbah surfaced after a fellow officer raised concerns about what he perceived as “atrocious” and discriminatory behavior by his colleagues.
Morel expressed confidence that the offensive comments not only lacked courtesy and respect but also tarnished the reputation of the RCMP, potentially diminishing public trust. She highlighted specific messages as racist, sexist, and homophobic, emphasizing their unacceptable nature in a professional setting.
Messages attributed to Dick included derogatory references to individuals based on their appearance, while Mesbah’s messages contained offensive language targeting others. Morel concluded that the messages reflected a mindset that undermined the public’s right to fair and equal treatment, deeming them blatantly racist, sexist, and homophobic.
Despite claims of frustration, dark humor, or sarcasm, Morel emphasized that such justifications did not excuse the officers’ conduct, citing the higher standards expected of law enforcement personnel. The RCMP is now moving forward to address the misconduct of the suspended constables, with the intent to seek their dismissals. The officers remain on suspension with pay, pending further assessment of their duty status.
Individuals affected by this incident are encouraged to seek mental health support through resources available in their respective provinces or territories.