Pan-Canadian Analysis of The Police Complaints System

• In Event: Poster Session 2

Abstract

Police officers wield specific powers that, for the interest of democracy, require oversight. However, their professional culture, characterized by internal solidarity and isolation, poses challenges to address police deviance effectively. Consequently, mechanisms were introduced, with the aim of protecting the public. Yet, few studies have sought to understand the effectiveness of these mechanisms, particularly from perspectives beyond the legal-administrative realm. Drawing on both documentary research and 15 semi-structured interviews, this comparative study is twofold. Firstly, it seeks outline the system for managing police deviance in Canada. Secondly, it aims to highlight the strengths and limitations of various organizations examined across the country. The findings reveal that Canada has at least 35 distinct civilian systems for overseeing and investigating complaints against the police, in addition to the countless disciplinary departments within police organizations. While the field of activity possesses significant legal authority, practical resources are often quite limited. This study initiates a discussion on the need of reforming the legal system, paving the way for the establishment of standardized best practices in this area.

Authors

• Gabriel Béliveau, Université de Montréal

• Marc Alain, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières

• Vicky Brassard, Université Laval