N.B. police say a sex assault oversight model makes them better. Halifax police say they can’t use it
Police forces in New Brunswick, such as the Kennebecasis Regional Police Force, are seeing positive outcomes from using a civilian oversight model for certain sex assault cases. The violence against women advocate case review (VACR) model involves a panel of civilian experts on sexual violence who review closed sex assault files and provide recommendations on whether cases should be reopened and offer feedback on how investigations were handled.
Deputy Chief Mary Henderson of the Kennebecasis Regional Police Force has expressed her satisfaction with the results of implementing the VACR model. She noted that fewer cases are now being sent to the VACR panel because officers are laying charges in more sexual assault cases. The force typically sees between nine and 24 cases a year, but the VACR panel reviewed only six cases in 2021, two each in 2022 and 2023, and none so far in 2024.
Despite the success seen in New Brunswick, Halifax Regional Police have chosen not to adopt the VACR model due to privacy concerns based on Nova Scotia legislation. Instead, they have opted to participate in the Nova Scotia RCMP’s sexual assault investigations review committee process for a pilot project over the next year. Former Halifax police board member Harry Critchley has raised questions about the decision, expressing disappointment in the lack of transparency and urging for a second legal opinion.
Critchley highlighted the importance of a thorough review process like the VACR model, which provides survivors of sexual violence with certainty that their cases will be reviewed. He emphasized the need for police boards to be more assertive in their oversight role and ensure that the chosen model meets the needs of individuals experiencing sexual violence. Halifax police will use the pilot project to explore the effectiveness of the RCMP’s case review model, with the aim of making an informed decision on the best approach for the city.
Chair of the Halifax board of police commissioners, Coun. Becky Kent, emphasized the importance of finding a model that meets the needs of individuals experiencing sexual violence. She acknowledged that every city is different and may require different capacities, making it essential to evaluate the effectiveness of the chosen model. Kent has requested Halifax police to provide an update on the pilot project in approximately six months to assess its impact and determine the best course of action moving forward.
