The Canadian military’s operations commander has directed the temporary withdrawal of Canada’s highest-ranking officer in Latvia following an inquiry into irregularities concerning compensation and benefits. Colonel James Smith is facing a charge of prejudice to good order and discipline under the National Defence Act, as per a charge filed on March 31 by military police.
In a statement released by the Department of National Defence on Tuesday, Lt.-Gen. Steve Boivin stated, “Today, after thorough consideration of all pertinent factors and ensuring procedural fairness, I have decided to temporarily relieve Col. Smith from his role as Commander Task Force Latvia.” The move aims to maintain leadership continuity and operational efficiency while the charge against Col. Smith progresses through the military justice system.
The statement specified that Lt.-Col. Joel Maley will assume interim command and is expected to stay in the position until midsummer when a new task force command team is scheduled to take over. Col. Smith will be reassigned to duties in Canada until the matter is resolved, according to Boivin.
Allegations against Smith were reported to military police nearly a year ago in May 2025 and appear to pertain to benefits provided by the Canadian Armed Forces. The Defence Department and the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal have not disclosed the exact nature of Smith’s alleged actions as of now, citing a lack of further information to release.
Smith has served in various senior roles within the army, including as the director of the Land Warfare Centre. Following the laying of charges last week, the Department of National Defence was questioned about Smith’s status, but declined to provide specifics on whether he had been temporarily relieved from his post and returned to Canada or if he remained in Latvia. They also did not clarify why Smith continued in his position while in other instances, commanding officers were required to step aside during investigations.