DUNPHY BEST BLOCKSOM (DBB) LLP RETAINED BY JEN MAGNUS AND 12 OTHER EMPLOYEES OF THE CALGARY POLICE SERVICE

(Calgary, AB, February 21, 2017)— Thirteen formal complaints are in the process of being directly submitted to the Chief of Police. The employees allege that the Calgary Police Service (CPS) has failed to provide a safe environment for certain employees, which has resulted in years of workplace bullying and harassment.

The employees allege that the culture of the CPS protects those who engage in abusive and harassing conduct in the workplace. In certain cases, when targets expressed their concerns to superiors, they were advised that nothing would be done if a complaint is filed. The Calgary Police Association (the union) has also advised some of the employees that it will not take on “blue on blue” grievances—leaving victims feeling that they have nowhere to turn.

“Most victims do not report their concerns in any formal way for fear of retaliation and damage to their careers,” said DBB’s lead counsel on this matter. “However, a number of CPS employees are now making formal complaints directly to the Chief in a concerted effort to push the CPS to make the changes that are desperately needed.”

“Our team, together with Jen Magnus, met with the Chief of Police last week,” said West. “The meeting was positive and the Chief has committed to investigating the complaints through an external workplace investigator. This is consistent with commitments that have been made by the Chair of the Calgary Police Commission.”

DBB’s employment law team has been assisting Jen Magnus and the other employees in understanding and assessing their options.