B.C. RCMP trio violated code of conduct with racist, sexist messages adjudicator

An RCMP adjudicator, Louise Morel, found three constables from Coquitlam guilty of violating the police code of conduct by posting racist, sexist, and homophobic comments in a group chat and on police terminals. The officers, Mersad Mesbah, Ian Solven, and Philip Dick, face potential dismissal as their legal representatives will meet next week to discuss further actions. Morel stated that the officers' claims that their comments stemmed from frustration or dark humor do not excuse their behavior, which she deemed unacceptable for law enforcement members. She reviewed messages that included derogatory references to women and racial slurs, asserting that such conduct undermines public confidence in the RCMP. Morel indicated that a reasonable person would find the officers' comments discreditable and stated that police must adhere to higher standards than the general public.

She plans to issue a more comprehensive written decision later. This ruling underscores the importance of maintaining professional conduct within police forces. The case highlights ongoing issues of discrimination and accountability in law enforcement.