Sask. First Nations leaders back recently removed RCMP commanding officer

The recent removal of Rhonda Blackmore as commanding officer of Saskatchewan’s RCMP F Division has sparked outrage and demands for answers from the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN). Blackmore, a respected 30-year RCMP veteran who had been in the assistant commissioner role since April 2021, was suddenly relieved of her duties on June 3 due to anonymous complaints.

In a joint statement, Tribal Chief Jeremy Fourhorns of the File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council expressed unwavering support for Blackmore, praising her integrity, accountability, and dedication to First Nation communities during her tenure as F Division CO. The FSIN, representing 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan, commended Blackmore’s commitment to community policing, leadership during crises like the 2022 mass killings on James Smith Cree Nation, and efforts to improve Indigenous recruitment and foster trust within communities.

However, the lack of transparency surrounding Blackmore’s removal and the absence of consultation have raised concerns about the RCMP’s internal processes. As a result, the FSIN has made three demands: the immediate reinstatement of Blackmore pending a transparent external investigation, the establishment of independent oversight for RCMP disciplinary actions, and a formal commitment to protect officers advocating for reform and community safety.

FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron has also called for the Office of the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner to investigate potential misuse of the RCMP’s whistleblower policy in this case. The FSIN is committed to ensuring justice for Blackmore, maintaining the integrity of the RCMP, and advocating for the rights of First Nations people in Saskatchewan.

In response, the RCMP emphasized its commitment to community policing and accountability, assuring that the appointment of an interim commanding officer will not impact front-line policing operations or the safety of Indigenous communities. The RCMP is confident that F Division officers will continue to serve Indigenous communities with dedication and professionalism.

Overall, the FSIN’s demands for transparency, accountability, and justice in the handling of Blackmore’s removal reflect the ongoing need for reform within the RCMP and a commitment to upholding the rights and safety of Indigenous communities in Saskatchewan.