Military police watchdog calling rare public hearing into alleged mishandling of suicide case

The Military Police Complaints Commission (MPCC) is set to hold its first public interest hearing in over a decade regarding an alleged negligence case involving the death of Master Corporal Shaun Orton, an intelligence analyst in Ottawa who died by suicide in April 2024. The complaint suggests that military police may have contributed to Orton’s death by failing to conduct a welfare check promptly and delaying the administration of first aid.

The chairperson of the MPCC, Tammy Tremblay, emphasized the seriousness of the allegations in the complaint, stating that a failure to conduct a timely welfare check could have potentially saved a life. The decision to hold a public hearing is rare for the MPCC, but Tremblay believes that it is necessary to address accountability and systemic issues related to responding to suicides.

Orton, who served in the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry and later transferred to the intelligence branch in Ottawa, had a history of military service, including a tour in Afghanistan. His wife raised concerns about his safety to military police after receiving disturbing communications from him on April 21, 2024. The complaint alleges that the military police dismissed her concerns and delayed entering Orton’s home to check on him.

When military police eventually found Orton’s body, they called civilian police who discovered that he was still alive and began administering first aid. Despite their efforts, Orton was pronounced dead at the hospital. His wife reported that military police mishandled evidence, including misplacing Orton’s suicide note, and failed to provide her with updates on the investigation.

The Canadian Forces Provost Marshal office initially closed the complaint without investigation, citing an ongoing criminal investigation as a reason. Despite urging them to reconsider, the office declined, prompting the MPCC to step in and launch a public interest hearing.

The MPCC has faced challenges in obtaining information from the military, as they have not shared documents related to the case due to the ongoing criminal investigation. The commission is determined to address the allegations and ensure that accountability is upheld.

As the investigation unfolds, it is essential to remember the importance of mental health support. If you or someone you know is struggling, seek help from relevant resources. The date for the virtual hearing has not yet been announced, but the MPCC is committed to uncovering the truth behind Orton’s tragic death and addressing any potential misconduct within the military police.