Police Forces Collaborate to Review Sexual Assault Cases

In a move that’s both bold and necessary, New Brunswick has set a new standard in the fight against sexual violence. The province, grappling with a disconcertingly high rate of unfounded sexual assault cases, has initiated a collaborative effort between its police forces and oversight committees to review closed cases. This promising approach aims not only to potentially reopen cases but to fundamentally enhance police response to sexual violence. At the heart of this initiative is the hope that by identifying investigative gaps or biases, future victims will be met with the justice and understanding they deserve.

A Collaborative Effort for Change

The seeds of change were sown back in 2021 with the Kennebecasis Valley Regional Police Force leading the charge. What started as a singular initiative has now expanded to include the police forces of Saint John, Fredericton, and Woodstock, each committing to either quarterly or annual case reviews. This expansion is a testament to the program’s perceived value, with each participating force keen on uncovering and rectifying any shortcomings in their investigative processes.

Despite logistical hurdles that have slowed the initiative’s full implementation, the response from the New Brunswick Association of Chiefs of Police has been overwhelmingly positive. This enthusiasm underscores a collective commitment to improving how sexual violence cases are handled. Furthermore, the oversight process has already provided valuable feedback to the Woodstock force, highlighting the importance of specialized training and continuous improvement in addressing sexual violence.

Addressing a National Crisis

The impetus for this initiative was a 2017 investigation that shed light on the alarmingly high percentage of sexual assault cases deemed unfounded across Canada, with New Brunswick among the most concerning regions. This revelation sparked a nationwide call to action, culminating in the creation of oversight committees modeled after the pioneering work of Sunny Mariner in Ottawa. These committees are now pivotal in efforts to not just reopen cases but to fundamentally shift the police culture surrounding the investigation of sexual violence.

Despite the progress made, the journey is far from over. The Department of Justice and Public Safety has yet to release the recommendations from a task force established to address these issues comprehensively. This delay underscores the complexities involved in reforming systems entrenched in longstanding practices and biases. However, the ongoing work of the oversight committees offers a beacon of hope for the many who have long awaited justice and recognition.

Looking Forward

While the challenges are undeniable, the initiative in New Brunswick serves as a crucial step forward in the broader movement to improve police responses to sexual violence. By bringing to light the gaps and biases in current investigative practices, these oversight committees not only pave the way for justice for past victims but also contribute to a safer and more understanding environment for future victims.

The collaboration between New Brunswick’s police forces and oversight committees exemplifies a powerful commitment to change. As this initiative continues to evolve, it stands as a promising model for other regions grappling with similar challenges. The fight against sexual violence requires relentless pursuit of improvement and accountability, and New Brunswick is leading by example, proving that when communities come together, transformative change is within reach.