The B.C. RCMP have officially been served in a civil claim by a 20-year member based out of Courtenay, alleging discrimination and harassment.
Staff Sgt. Annie Linteau, senior media relations officer with B.C. RCMP ‘E’ Division, said in an email the organization’s official response will be filed in court as a statement of defence.
She added as the matter is now before the court, it would be inappropriate to comment further.
In Aug. 2017, Cpl. Jill Swann filed the claim in Vancouver against a variety of individuals, but specifically directed many of the claims against her supervisor, Cpl. Roger Collin of the Island District General Investigations Section (IDGIS) of ‘E’ Division. The suit also names the commanding officer of ‘E’ Division and current Comox Valley RCMP Inspector Tim Walton.
The B.C. Supreme Court case alleges discrimination and harassment in reference to her physical appearance, sex and against First Nations people. Swann, who served as a constable from Sept. 1996, was stationed out of Courtenay from 2006 to 2016.