Report on RCMP Public Complaints 2023-2024

All Provinces and Territories

PDF Version [2.93MB]

Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

The Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the RCMP (CRCC) accepts complaints about the on-duty conduct of RCMP members. Complaints may also be made directly with the RCMP or the provincial authority responsible for receiving complaints. For more information, please see the CRCC's 2023-24 Annual Report.

Of the 4,500 public complaints filed, 3,157 were sent to the RCMP for investigation, while 1,295 did not meet the criteria set out in Part VII of the RCMP Act.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints Canada-Wide 2023-24

Text Version
Public Complaints Canada-Wide 2023-24
Complaints accepted Complaints refused Complaints pending
3,157 1,295 48

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints Canada-Wide 2023-24

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 878
  • Outside Time Limit: 128
  • Trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith: 154
  • Third parties: 110

Other reasons for refused complaints each accounted for 1% or less of total refused complaints.

Complaints Lodged with the Commission vs. the RCMP

BY PROVINCE AND TERRITORY

Text Version
Complaints Lodged with the Commission vs. the RCM
BY PROVINCE AND TERRITORY
British Columbia Alberta Saskachewan* Manitoba Ontario Quebec New Brunswick Prince Edward Island Nova Scotia Newfoundland and Labrador Yukon Northwest Territories Nunavut
CRCC 98% 96% 94% 96% 98% 100% 98% 96% 99% 97% 100% 95% 100%
RCMP 2% 4% 5% 4% 2% 0% 2% 4% 1% 3% 0% 5% 0%

*1% of complaints were lodged with Provincial Authority.

Numbers relating to complaints filed with RCMP are based on information available to the CRCC at the time data was generated.

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints Canada-Wide

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Canada-Wide
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
2,4272,247 2,1722,1873,293

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP

Resolution of Complaints Canada-Wide**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints Canada-Wide**
  2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 984 657 753 693 839
Investigated by the RCMP 1,318 1,014 968 1,122 1,135
Withdrawn by complainant 608 382 332 353 331
Terminated by the RCMP 383 134 119 79 112

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

A complaint may contain a single allegation* or multiple allegations.

Allegations contained in public complaints are categorized during the investigation.

In 2023-24, the 3,293 finalized complaint investigations contained 8,034 allegations.

The allegations were resolved as follows:

  • 7% were substantiated by the RCMP
  • 51% were not substantiated by the RCMP
  • 24% were informally resolved
  • 13% were withdrawn by the complainant
  • 5% were terminated by the RCMP

Allegation Outcomes Canada-Wide

Text Version
Allegation Outcomes Canada-Wide
  2019-202020-212021-222022-232023-24
Substantiated 333471342 551 531
Not Substantiated 3,526 4,1722,987 3,3964,126
Informally Resolved 1,6711,575 1,5041,417 1,948
Withdrawn 640733 715 791 1,066
Terminated 187140 153 132363

Top five allegation categories remained unchanged in 2023-2024. The way in which they were resolved is outlined below:

Top Five Allegation Categories Canada-Wide 2023-24
Allegation Total Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by Complainant

Neglect of Duty

3,502

303

1,771

768

148

512

Improper Attitude

2,141

117

944

713

93

274

Improper Use of Force

755

11

502

127

49

66

Improper Arrest

501

35

313

85

8

60

Irregularity in Procedure

238

18

100

69

13

38

*A list of all allegations is available on the CRCC Website.

Public Complaint Investigation Service Standards

Service standards allow public complaints about RCMP member conduct to be addressed in a consistent and timely manner.

The CRCC's service standard for forwarding complaints to the RCMP's National Public Complaints Directorate (NPCD) is 10 days. In 2023-24, 38% of complaints were sent to the RCMP within the 10-day service standard*.

CRCC Service Standard for Complaints Received in 2023-24
Number of Days to Send Complaint to RCMP Total Complaints Sent to RCMP

10 days or less

1,276 (38%)

10-20 days

975 (29%)

20-30 days

392 (12%)

30-40 days

139 (4%)

40+ days

572 (17%)

The RCMP's internal service standard for investigating and concluding public complaints is 120 days. In 2023-24, 65% of complaint investigations were finalized within the RCMP's 120-day internal service standard.

RCMP Service Standard for Complaint Investigations in 2023-24
Time to Investigate and Finalize Complaints Finalized Complaint Investigations

120 days or less

1,808 (65%)

Over 120 days, > 1 year

766 (27%)

1-2 years

175 (6%)

2+ years

41 (1%)

*Some complaints sent to the RCMP in 2023-24 were lodged with the CRCC in 2022-23.

The chart below outlines the number of outstanding public complaints that have been with the RCMP for over 120 days.

Outstanding Complaints Over 120 Days

Text Version

Outstanding Complaints Over 120 Days

  • <1year: 800
  • 1-2 year: 458
  • 2-3 year: 179
  • 3-4 year: 66
  • 4+ year: 55

<1 refers to complaints that are outstanding for more than 120 days, but less than 1 year.

The CRCC calculates investigation length as the number of business days required for the RCMP to conclude a complaint filed with the CRCC. The table below reflects only complaints filed with the CRCC (~98%) and do not account for complaints filed directly with the RCMP (~2%).

Average Length of RCMP Public Complaint Investigation
Resolution Method

Average Number of Days to Finalize Complaint

Investigated by the RCMP

221

Informally Resolved

92

Withdrawn by the Complainant

69

Terminated by the RCMP

78

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

The role of the CRCC is to make findings after an objective examination of the information available and to make recommendations that improve policy and performance of the RCMP and its members.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review Canada-Wide

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to Commission for Review Canada-wide
2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
229308242234 262

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review by Province & Territory 2023-24

Text Version
  • BC: 113
  • AB: 50
  • SK: 24
  • MB: 25
  • ON: 3
  • QC: 2
  • NB: 6
  • PE: 0
  • NS: 22
  • NL: 11
  • YT: 5
  • NT: 1
  • NU: 1

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response and prepares a Final Report.

Review Reports Issued Canada-wide
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

149

42

55

246

2022-23

184

59

49

292

2021-22

176

54

174

404

2020-21

196

48

78

322

2019-20

313

57

24

394

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC made 184 recommendations. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Recommendations Supported by the RCMP Canada-Wide 2023-24
Province Territory Supported by the RCMP Not Supported by the RCMP Partially Supported by the RCMP Total

BC

43

3

0

46

AB

36

10

4

50

SK

5

2

2

9

MB

13

0

0

13

ON

1

0

1

2

QC

4

0

0

4

NB

18

4

2

24

PE

6

0

0

6

NS

20

1

4

25

NL

1

1

0

2

YT

3

0

0

3

NT

0

0

0

0

NU

0

0

0

0

TOTAL

150

21

13

184
British Columbia
  • 1,934 complaints lodged representing 43% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 1,656 complaints finalized representing 50% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 1,934 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in British Columbia between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 1,902 complaints, while the RCMP received 31 complaints, and 1 was lodged with a provincial authority.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in British Columbia

Text Version
Public Complaints in British Columbia
2019-20 2020-212021-222022-23 2023-24
Complaints accepted 1,0481,1431,255 1,323 1,512
Complaints refused 691408600556 402
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 20

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in British Columbia

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 261
  • Outside Time Limit: 52
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 47
  • Third Party: 30
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 9

The CRCC refused 1 complaint related to national security. The CRCC does not have jurisdiction to conduct a review of an RCMP activity that is related to national security. These matters are referred to the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA).

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in British Columbia

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in British Columbia
2019-202020-21 2021-222022-23 2023-24
1,1891,040 9971,031 1,656

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in British Columbia**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in British Columbia**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 515 338 388 376 443
Investigated by the RCMP 635 487 449 470 546
Withdrawn by complainant 287 146 160 149 144
Terminated by the RCMP 219 60 55 45 56

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in British Columbia finalized 1,656 complaints containing 3,846 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

1546

120

733

372

59

262

Improper Attitude

1031

45

423

403

41

119

Improper Use of Force

429

3

279

81

29

37

Improper Arrest

271

17

169

43

6

36

Irregularity in Procedure

124

4

43

48

9

20

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 113 new requests for review concerning complaints in British Columbia.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (BC)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (BC)
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
113 101 96 114 144
Review Reports Issued (BC)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total
2023-24 61 13 13 87
2022-23 66 12 17 95
2021-22 70 24 73 167
2020-21 92 26 23 141
2019-20 129 16 10 155

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC made 46 recommendations in British Columbia. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Most Common Recommendation Types Issued by the CRCC in British Columbia
Recommendation

Number

Operational Guidance

16

Training/Protocol Review

7

Apology

7

Policy Review/Amendment

 7

The RCMP made 2 additional commitments stemming from a CRCC recommendation.

Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in British Columbia
Recommendation

Number

Supported

93%

Partially Supported

0%

Not Supported

7%
Alberta
  • 881 complaints lodged representing 20% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 675 complaints finalized representing 20% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 881 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in Alberta between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 846 complaints, while the RCMP received 33 complaints, and 2 were lodged with a provincial authority.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Alberta

Text Version
Public Complaints in Alberta
2019-202020-21 2021-222022-23 2023-24
Complaints accepted 520462526 643 683
Complaints refused 275193 227234 193
Complaints pending 0010 5

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in Alberta

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 136
  • Outside Time Limit: 16
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 17
  • Third Party: 20
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 1

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Alberta

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Alberta
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-23 2023-24
505 493438 429 675

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Alberta**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Alberta**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 220 136 179 137 183
Investigated by the RCMP 271 198 184 256 222
Withdrawn by complainant 133 74 48 85 68
Terminated by the RCMP 51 21 27 15 32

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in Alberta finalized 675 complaints containing 1,438 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

669

76

337

157

18

81

Improper Attitude

510

36

212

164

28

70

Improper Use of Force

126

4

93

11

8

10

Improper Arrest

86

10

56

15

0

5

Irregularity in Procedure

47

2

20

11

2

12

Complaints Referred to the CRCCfor Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 50 new requests for review concerning complaints in Alberta.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (AB)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (AB)
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
50 61 50 91 69
Review Reports Issued (AB)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

24

7

18

49

2022-23

55

21

13

89

2021-22

55

12

43

110

2020-21

37

14

12

63

2019-20

70

16

8

94

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC made 50 recommendations in Alberta. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Most Common Recommendation Types Issued by the CRCC in Alberta
Recommendation Number

Operational Guidance

19

Apology

7

Report Review

5

Further Investigation

4

The RCMP made 1 additional commitment stemming from a CRCC recommendation.

Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in Alberta
Recommendation

Number

Supported

72%

Partially Supported

8%

Not Supported

20%
Saskatchewan
  • 287 complaints lodged representing 6% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 248 complaints finalized representing 8% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 287 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in Saskatchewan between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 270 complaints, while the RCMP received 14 complaints, and 3 were lodged with the provincial authority.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Saskatchewan

Text Version
Public Complaints in Saskatchewan
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accepted 191146185204 210
Complaints refused 85696586 72
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 5

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in Saskatchewan

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 49
  • Outside Time Limit: 6
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 14
  • Third Party: 2
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 1

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Saskatchewan

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Saskatchewan
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
212 138 165 162 248

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Saskatchewan**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Saskatchewan**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 59 35 56 44 61
Investigated by the RCMP 119 81 78 72 114
Withdrawn by complainant 39 35 24 20 25
Terminated by the RCMP 31 11 7 2 12

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in Saskatchewan finalized 248 complaints containing 639 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

363

44

192

58

29

40

Improper Attitude

146

15

80

29

3

19

Improper Use of Force

69

0

48

15

4

2

Improper Arrest

43

6

27

7

1

2

Improper Search of Premises

18

0

12

3

2

1

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 23 new requests for review concerning complaints in Saskatchewan.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (SK)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (SK)
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
23 21 20 20 33
Review Reports Issued (SK)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

19

4

4

27

2022-23

11

7

6

24

2021-22

9

2

15

26

2020-21

26

4

4

34

2019-20

28

7

2

37

Recommendations

In the 2023-24, the CRCC made 9 recommendations in Saskatchewan. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Most Common Recommendation Types Issued by the CRCC in Saskatchewan
Recommendation

Number

Operational Guidance

4

Training / Protocol Review

2

Apology

1

Further Investigation

1

The RCMP made 1 additional commitment stemming from a CRCC recommendation.

Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in Saskatchewan
Recommendation

Number

Supported

56%

Partially Supported

22%

Not Supported

22%
Manitoba
  • 250 complaints lodged representing 6% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 185 complaints finalized representing 6% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 250 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in Manitoba between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 241 complaints, while the RCMP received 9 complaints.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Manitoba

Text Version
Public Complaints in Manitoba
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accepted 156120135143 181
Complaints refused 6441 41 50 68
Complaints pending 00 1 01

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

the CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in Manitoba

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 34
  • Outside Time Limit: 3
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 29
  • Third Party: 1
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 1

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Manitoba

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Manitoba
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
170 119 110 124 185

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Manitoba**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Manitoba**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 42 24 19 23 42
Investigated by the RCMP 86 63 65 72 96
Withdrawn by complainant 31 26 19 23 21
Terminated by the RCMP 26 11 7 1 11

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories.

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in Manitoba finalized 185 complaints containing 546 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

271

21

152

40

26

32

Improper Attitude

115

8

69

20

8

10

Improper Use of Force

53

1

42

1

3

6

Improper Search of Premises

30

0

21

4

4

1

Improper Arrest

29

2

22

2

0

3

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 25 new requests for review concerning complaints in Manitoba.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (MB)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (MB)
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
25 15 13 19 19
Review Reports Issued (MB)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

16

2

3

21

2022-23

11

4

2

17

2021-22

12

2

11

25

2020-21

13

2

7

22

2019-20

25

2

0

27

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC made 13 recommendations in Manitoba. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Most Common Recommendation Types Issued by the CRCC in Manitoba
Recommendation Number

Training / Protocol Review

3

Apology

3

Policy Review / Amendment

2

Report Review

2

*The RCMP made 1 additional commitment stemming from a CRCC recommendation.

Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in Manitoba
Recommendation Number

Supported

100%

Partially Supported

0%

Not Supported

0%
Ontario
  • 255 complaints lodged representing 6% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 25 complaints finalized representing 1% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 255 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in Ontario between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 251 complaints, while the RCMP received 4 complaints.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Ontario

Text Version
Public Complaints in Ontario
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accepted 21 2931 25 23
Complaints refused 120123 205136 230
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 2

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in Ontario

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 156
  • Outside Time Limit: 7
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 18
  • Third Party: 48
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 0

*The CRCC refused 1 complaint related to national security. The CRCC does not have jurisdiction to conduct a review of an RCMP activity that is related to national security. These matters are referred to the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA).

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Ontario

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Ontario
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
30 28 2526 25

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Ontario**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Ontario**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 5 2 4 2 6
Investigated by the RCMP 9 11 13 22 14
Withdrawn by complainant 1 5 1 1 5
Terminated by the RCMP 10 8 7 3 5

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories.

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in Ontario finalized 25 complaints containing 33 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

16

1

7

3

4

1

Improper Attitude

12

0

6

1

5

0

Irregularity in Procedure

2

0

0

1

1

0

Improper Use of Force

1

0

1

0

0

0

Oppressive Conduct

1

0

0

0

1

0

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 3 new requests for review concerning complaints in Ontario.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (ON)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (ON)
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
3 4 5 8 4
Review Reports Issued (ON)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

3

2

2

7

2022-23

3

0

0

3

2021-22

8

0

1

9

2020-21

5

0

0

5

2019-20

5

1

0

6

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC made 2 recommendations in Ontario. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Recommendation Types Issued by the CRCC in Ontario
Recommendation Number
Operational Guidance 2
Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in Ontario
Recommendation Number
Supported 50%
Partially Supported 50%
Not Supported 0%
Quebec
  • 100 complaints lodged representing 2% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 12 complaints finalized representing less than 1% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 100 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in Quebec between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 100 complaints, while the RCMP received 0 complaint.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Quebec

Text Version
Public Complaints in Quebec
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accepted 4 911 16 7
Complaints refused 526862 84 93
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 0

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

the CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in Quebec

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 84
  • Outside Time Limit: 0
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 8
  • Third Party: 0
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 1

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Quebec

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Quebec
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
3610 13 12

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Quebec**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Quebec**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 5 1 3 3 0
Investigated by the RCMP 3 6 2 2 3
Withdrawn by complainant 1 1 1 0 0
Terminated by the RCMP 3 5 4 1 0

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories.

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in Quebec finalized 12 complaints containing 17 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

8

0

3

4

0

1

Improper Attitude

6

0

2

4

0

0

Improper Use of Force

2

0

0

2

0

0

Irregularity in Procedure

1

0

1

0

0

0

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 2 new requests for review concerning complaints in Quebec.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (QC)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (QC)
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
2 4 1 0 1
Review Reports Issued (QC)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

3

1

1

5

2022-23

1

0

0

1

2021-22

0

0

1

1

2020-21

2

0

0

2

2019-20

1

0

0

1

Recommendations

In the 2023-24, the CRCC made 4 recommendations in Quebec. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Recommendation Types Issued by the CRCC in Quebec
Recommendation Number
Other 3
Further Investigation 1
Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in Quebec
Recommendation Number
Supported 100%
Partially Supported 0%
Not Supported 0%
New Brunswick
  • 239 complaints lodged representing 5% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 143 complaints finalized representing 4% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 239 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in New Brunswick between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 235 complaints, while the RCMP received 4 complaints.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in New Brunswick

Text Version
Public Complaints in New Brunswick
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accepted 127111 172158 178
Complaints refused 57356877 59
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 2

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in New Brunswick

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 36
  • Outside time limit: 13
  • Trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith: 5
  • Third party: 3
  • More appropriately addressed by another Act: 2

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in New Brunswick

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in New Brunswick
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
101132150131 143

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Nouveau Brunswick**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Nouveau Brunswick**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 42 36 36 27 16
Investigated by the RCMP 43 59 82 76 45
Withdrawn by complainant 45 32 31 23 39
Terminated by the RCMP 13 4 1 6 1

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories.

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in New Brunswick finalized 143 complaints containing 370 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

197

2

100

46

4

45

Improper Attitude

80

2

36

20

2

20

Improper Use of Force

25

2

10

7

0

6

Improper Arrest

23

0

11

9

0

3

Irregularity in Procedure

14

6

6

1

0

1

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 6 new requests for review concerning complaints in New Brunswick.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (NB)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (NB)
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
6 18 24 17 10
Review Reports Issued (NB)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

12

5

6

23

2022-23

13

6

4

23

2021-22

8

5

9

22

2020-21

10

25

0

35

2019-20

27

4

1

32

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC made 24 recommendations in New Brunswick. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Recommendation Issued by the CRCC in New Brunswick
Recommendation Number

Operational Guidance

14

Apology

7

Report Review

2

Training / protocol Review

1

*The RCMP made 2 additional commitments stemming from CRCC recommendations.

Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in New Brunswick
Recommendation Number

Supported

75%

Partially Supported

8%

Not Supported

17%
Prince Edward Island
  • 25 complaints lodged representing less than 1% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 20 complaints finalized representing less than 1% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 25 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in Prince Edward Island between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 24 complaints, while the RCMP received 1 complaint.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Prince Edward Island

Text Version
Public Complaints in Prince Edward Island
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accepted 10 12 2120 16
Complaints refused 3 4810 9
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 0

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Public Complaints in Prince Edward Island

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 4
  • Outside Time Limit: 1
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 2
  • Third Party: 1
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 1

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Prince Edward Island

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Prince Edward Island
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
7171420 20

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Prince Edward Island**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Prince Edward Island**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 6 5 8 2 1
Investigated by the RCMP 10 12 3 14 5
Withdrawn by complainant 3 2 3 1 1
Terminated by the RCMP 1 1 0 0 0

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories.

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in Prince Edward Island finalized 20 complaints containing 38 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

21

2

15

3

0

1

Improper Attitude

12

1

5

4

0

2

Improper Use of Force

1

0

1

0

0

0

Improper Arrest

1

0

1

0

0

0

Improper Use of Firearms

1

0

1

0

0

0

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 0 new request for review concerning complaints in Prince Edward Island.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (PE)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (PE)
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
0 3 1 1 2
Review Reports Issued (PE)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

2

1

1

4

2022-23

1

0

0

1

2021-22

1

0

1

2

2020-21

1

0

0

1

2019-20

2

1

0

3

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC made 6 recommendations in Prince Edward Island. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Recommendation Types Issued by the CRCC in Prince Edward Island
Recommendation Number
Policy Review / Amendment 3
Operational Guidance 2
Training / Protocol Review 1
Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in Prince Edward Island
Recommendation Number
Supported 100%
Partially Supported 0%
Not Supported 0%
Nova Scotia
  • 273 complaints lodged representing 6% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 153 complaints finalized representing 5% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 273 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in Nova Scotia between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 270 complaints, while the RCMP received 3 complaints.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Nova Scotia

Text Version
Public Complaints in Nova Scotia
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accetped 172154176181 198
Complaints refused 59885057 66
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 9

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

the CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in Nova Scotia

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 40
  • Outside Time Limit: 19
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 4
  • Third Party: 2
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 1

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Nova Scotia

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Nova Scotia
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
92172142 118 153

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Nova Scotia**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Nova Scotia**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 44 37 47 61 52
Investigated by the RCMP 59 42 63 82 27
Withdrawn by complainant 38 32 28 26 11
Terminated by the RCMP 12 7 4 3 2

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories.

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in Nova Scotia finalized 153 complaints containing 432 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

213

27

122

34

6

24

Improper Attitude

112

6

43

39

0

24

Improper Arrest

22

0

13

4

0

5

Irregularity in Procedure

21

2

14

3

1

1

Improper Use of Force

15

0

9

1

0

5

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 22 new requests for review concerning complaints in Nova Scotia.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (NS)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (NS)
2023-24 2022-2023 2021-2022 2020-2021 2019-2020
22 4 26 22 7
Review Reports Issued (NS)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

3

4

5

12

2022-23

13

4

4

21

2021-22

9

5

9

23

2020-21

7

1

4

12

2019-20

17

4

3

24

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC made 25 recommendations in Nova Scotia. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Most Common Recommendation Types Issued by the CRCC in Nova Scotia
Recommendation Number

Operational Guidance

9

Apology

4

Report Review

3
Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in Nova Scotia
Recommendation Number

Supported

80%

Partially Supported

16%

Not Supported

4%
Newfoundland and Labrador
  • 90 complaints lodged representing 2% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 96 complaints finalized representing 3% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 90 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in Newfoundland and Labrador between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 87 complaints, while the RCMP received 3 complaints.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Newfoundland and Labrador

Text Version
Public Complaints in Newfoundland and Labrador
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accepted 5146 7164 58
Complaints refused 2118 27 19 29
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 3

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in Newfoundland and Labrador

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 20
  • Outside Time Limit: 4
  • Trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith: 4
  • Third party: 1
  • More appropriately addressed by another Act: 0

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Newfoundland and Labrador

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Newfoundland and Labrador
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
4330 27 83 96

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Newfoundland and Labrador**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Newfoundland and Labrador**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 30 14 5 5 30
Investigated by the RCMP 44 22 16 14 36
Withdrawn by complainant 5 7 8 7 15
Terminated by the RCMP 2 3 0 1 1

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories.

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in Newfoundland and Labrador finalized 96 complaints containing 248 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

129

1

70

36

2

20

Improper Attitude

71

0

46

17

0

8

Improper Use of Force

17

0

8

8

1

0

Improper Arrest

11

0

6

4

1

0

Irregularity in Procedure

8

0

6

2

0

0

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 11 new requests for review concerning complaints in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (NL)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (NL)
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
11 9 3 8 2
Review Reports Issued (NL)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

6

2

1

9

2022-23

6

0

0

6

2021-22

3

2

4

9

2020-21

0

0

2

2

2019-20

6

2

0

8

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC made 2 recommendations in Newfoundland and Labrador. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Recommendation Types Issued by the CRCC in Newfoundland and Labrador
Recommendation Number
Policy Development 1
Training / Protocol Review 1

*The RCMP made 2 additional commitments stemming from a CRCC recommendation.

Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in Newfoundland and Labrador
Recommendation Number
Supported 50%
Partially Supported 0%
Not Supported 50%
Yukon
  • 45 complaints lodged representing 1% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 37 complaints finalized representing 1% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 45 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in Yukon between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 45 complaints, while the RCMP received 0 complaint.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Yukon

Text Version
Public Complaints in Yukon
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accepted 25222835 34
Complaints refused 611217 11
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 0

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in Yukon

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 7
  • Outside Time Limit: 0
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 3
  • Third Party: 1
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 0

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Yukon

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Yukon
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
1830 13 21 37

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Yukon**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Yukon**
2019-2020 2020-2021 2021-2022 2022-2023 2023-2024
Informally resolved 6 4 2 4 2
Investigated by the RCMP 11 22 9 14 25
Withdrawn by complainant 1 4 2 1 4
Terminated by the RCMP 0 0 0 2 4

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories.

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in Yukon finalized 37 complaints containing 71 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Neglect of Duty

38

3

29

3

0

3

Improper Attitude

12

1

9

2

0

0

Mishandling of Property

11

1

10

0

0

0

Improper Use of Force

9

1

8

0

0

0

Improper Search of Premises

5

0

5

0

0

0

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 5 new requests for review concerning complaints in Yukon.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (YT)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (YT)
2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
0 4 2 3 5
Review Reports Issued (YT)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

3

0

1

4

2022-23

2

1

0

3

2021-22

1

1

3

5

2020-21

2

0

0

2

2019-20

0

2

0

2

Recommendations

In the 2023-24, the CRCC made 3 recommendations in Yukon. The breakdown of RCMP responses to CRCC recommendations is as follows:

Recommendation Types Issued by the CRCC in Yukon
Recommendation Number
Further Investigation 2
Policy Review / Amendment 1
Recommendations Supported by the RCMP in Yukon
Recommendation Number
Supported 100%
Partially Supported 0%
Not Supported 0%
Northwest Territories
  • 39 complaints lodged representing 1% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 32 complaints finalized representing 1% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 39 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in the Northwest Territories between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 37 complaints, while the RCMP received 2 complaints.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Northwest Territories

Text Version
Public Complaints in Northwest Territories
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accepted 2415 1027 34
Complaints refused 10 2 113 5
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 0

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in the Northwest Territories

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 4
  • Outside Time Limit: 1
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 0
  • Third Party: 0
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 0

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Northwest Territories

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Northwest Territories
2023-242022-232021-222020-212019-20
25 1912 19 32

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Northwest Territories**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Northwest Territories**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 12 5 4 4 7
Investigated by the RCMP 13 4 3 10 14
Withdrawn by complainant 5 9 4 5 3
Terminated by the RCMP 2 1 1 0 1

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories.

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in the Northwest Territories finalized 32 complaints containing 76 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Improper Attitude

29

3

11

9

5

1

Neglect of Duty

26

6

10

9

0

1

Improper Arrest

12

0

7

0

0

5

Improper Use of Force

8

0

3

1

4

0

Improper Persons/ Vehicle Search

1

0

1

0

0

0

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 1 new request for review concerning complaints in the Northwest Territories.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (NT)

Text Version

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (NT)

  • 2023-24: 1
  • 2022-23: 0
  • 2021-22: 1
  • 2020-21: 0
  • 2019-20: 1
Review Reports Issued (NT)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

0

0

0

0

2022-23

0

1

0

1

2021-22

0

0

0

0

2020-21

1

0

2

3

2019-20

0

0

0

0

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC did not make any recommendations in the Northwest Territories.

Nunavut
  • 33 complaints lodged representing less than 1% of complaints lodged Canada-wide
  • 8 complaints finalized representing less than 1% of complaints finalized Canada-wide

Public Complaints Received

Of the 33 public complaints lodged regarding the on-duty conduct of RCMP members in Nunavut between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, the CRCC received 33 complaints, while the RCMP received 0 complaint.

While the CRCC and the RCMP receive a large number of public complaints each fiscal year, not all meet the complaint criteria laid out in section 45.53 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

Public Complaints in Nunavut

Text Version
Public Complaints in Nunavut
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
Complaints accepted 1725 914 20
Complaints refused 74 66 13
Complaints pending 0 0 0 0 0

In 2023 the CRCC undertook an audit of its case management system to examine approximately 1,500 complaint records dating back to 2019. As a result of the audit, historical data included in the 2023-24 Report on Public Complaints may differ slightly compared to historical data published in reports from previous years.

The CRCC may refuse to deal with a complaint for a number of reasons, including:

  • The complaint does not fall within the CRCC's mandate;
  • The complaint is not filed within a year of the occurrence;
  • The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith;
  • The complaint is made by third parties who have no connection to the alleged incident;
  • The complaint could be more appropriately dealt with under another Act.

Refused Complaints in Nunavut

Text Version
  • Non-Mandate: 9
  • Outside Time Limit: 4
  • Trivial, Fricolous, Vexatious or Made in Bad Faith: 0
  • Third Party: 0
  • More Appropriately Addressed by other Act: 0

Public Complaints Finalized

The RCMP investigates public complaints* and provides the complainant with a report, finalizing the complaint.

It is important to note that complaints finalized by the RCMP within a fiscal year are not necessarily related to complaints lodged during that same time period.

For example, a complaint that is finalized in February 2024 (FY 2023-24) may have been lodged in December 2022 (FY 2022-23).

Number of Finalized Complaints in Nunavut

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints in Nunavut
2019-20 2020-212021-22 2022-232023-24
32 2013 10 8

Complaints can be resolved as follows:

  • informally resolved by the RCMP;
  • investigated by the RCMP;
  • withdrawn by the complainant;
  • terminated by the RCMP.

Resolution of Complaints in Nunavut**

Text Version
Resolution of Complaints in Nunavut**
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
Informally resolved 1 4 2 5 8
Investigated by the RCMP 1 1 3 5 16
Withdrawn by complainant 4 4 4 8 6
Terminated by the RCMP 2 1 4 2 2

*With the exception of public interest investigations, which are carried out by the CRCC.

**A small number of complaints are resolved annually using a combination of two or more of the mechanisms listed above. As such, the sum of the individual closing categories may be greater than the total.

Finalized Complaints & Allegations

Allegations are classified according to the following categories.

  • Improper Attitude
  • Improper Use of Force
  • Improper Use of Firearms
  • Irregularity in Procedure
  • Driving Irregularity
  • Neglect of Duty
  • Statutory Offence
  • Mishandling of Property
  • Evidence Irregularity
  • Oppressive Conduct
  • Improper Arrest
  • Improper Persons / Vehicles Search
  • Improper Search of Premises
  • Policy
  • Equipment
  • Service

A full description of each of these categories is available on the CRCC website.

In 2023-24, the RCMP in Nunavut finalized 8 complaints containing 10 allegations. The most common allegations made in these complaints, and the way in which they were resolved, are outlined below:

Allegation & Number Substantiated by RCMP Not Substantiated by RCMP Informally Resolved by RCMP Terminated by RCMP Withdrawn by complainant

Improper Attitude

4

0

2

0

1

1

Neglect of Duty

3

0

1

1

0

1

Improper Search of Premises

1

0

0

0

0

1

Service

1

0

0

0

0

1

Improper Arrest

1

0

0

0

0

1

Complaints Referred to the CRCC for Review

Following the RCMP's investigation of a public complaint, if a complainant is not satisfied with how the RCMP has concluded their complaint, the legislation allows them to refer their complaint to the CRCC for review.

At any point during its review, the CRCC may request that the RCMP investigate further.

If the CRCC is satisfied with RCMP's handling of the complaint, the Chairperson issues a Satisfied Report to the RCMP Commissioner, the Minister of Public Safety, the complainant, and the member(s) involved, thereby ending the review process.

If the CRCC is not satisfied with the RCMP's handling of the complaint the Chairperson will issue an Interim Report, outlining various findings and recommendations directed at the RCMP, which will be sent to the RCMP Commissioner and the Minister of Public Safety.

 Once the Interim Report has been reviewed by the RCMP, the RCMP Commissioner gives notice, identifying which recommendations the RCMP will act on. If no, or a different, action is to be taken, the Commissioner must provide reasons to the CRCC.

The Chairperson considers the Commissioner's Response, and prepares a Final Report.

In 2023-24, the CRCC received 1 new request for review concerning complaints in Nunavut.

Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (NU)

Text Version
Number of Finalized Complaints Referred to CRCC for Review (NU)
2023-24 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20
1 0 0 1 1
Review Reports Issued (NU)
  Satisfied Reports Interim Reports Final Reports Total

2023-24

0

1

0

1

2022-23

0

1

1

2

2021-22

0

1

4

5

2020-21

1

1

0

2

2019-20

0

0

0

0

Recommendations

In 2023-24, the CRCC did not make any recommendations in Nunavut.

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