The Lions Tale

Another significant blow to the image of the RCMP in British Columbia occurred recently, upon the revelation that a valued member of the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) had maintained an inappropriate romantic relationship with the ex-girlfriend of a murdered gangster. The woman is a witness in the gangland-style execution case referred to as the “Surrey Six”. Sergeant Derek Brassington, a 14 year member with the Force, had enjoyed an impeccable reputation as a driven, relentless investigator with a bright future ahead of him. Unlike the majority of RCMP gaffes exposed in the media of late, this is not a direct result of that organization’s undeniable leadership vacuum.

In terms of impact upon the prosecution of the persons charged with these slayings, there will be no discernible difference in the judicial outcome. Convictions will almost certainly result. One source of this relief is the fact that the witness was not a source of information which formed the basis for any legal applications such as search warrants or wiretaps in this case. It may be that her evidence will have less weight attributed to it in light of this recent development.

The prosecution has not been placed at particular risk, notwithstanding the indignation expressed by the media and, sadly, the majority of the viewing public.

This type of incident is not particularly uncommon. Rather than simply piling on reflexively and demonizing Mr. Brassington, I suggest that a deeper analysis is warranted. In all categories of high risk policing, close supervision is of critical necessity. Long term immersion in the investigation of homicides, organized crime, witness protection, informants, wiretap or undercover operations can do things to people.

The “Surrey Six” case has all of these components. The need for adequate supervision within these environments is extreme, given the minefield within which these people operate. Every day of their working lives, these people are subjected to stresses the average person cannot fairly contemplate. The consequences of error are enormous, and the dangers absolute.

I have spoken to a number of observers on this subject in recent days, people from several walks of life outside the policing community. In general terms, they have provided an astute commentary. Without exception, their reaction included the suggestion that Sgt. Brassington’s actions must have been at least partly attributed to stress overload. I subscribe to this perception. An immediate supervisor should have been paying close attention to this member.

In my long policing journey spent almost exclusively in high risk assignments, I have observed weak supervision derail many promising careers. Second only to its extraordinarily weak leadership at the executive level, the biggest vulnerability within the RCMP is the lack of quality supervision within the rank and file. These men and women responsible for solving crimes such as the “Surrey Six” are real people with domestic obligations and pressures like the rest of us. Add 70 hours per week targeting the Red Scorpions without someone above them in rank keeping an eye out for signs of trouble, and nasty things can happen.

I don’t know Derek Brassington and can’t condone what he did. I think, however, that there may well be a medical explanation for his actions.