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2w ago

Vancouver Police Sergeant Demoted and Suspended for Sexual Harassment

Keiron McConnell admitted to misconduct involving five women, prompting disciplinary action and calls for systemic reform within the department.

A Vancouver Police logo is pictured on a vehicle in Vancouver on Dec. 4, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Sgt. Keiron McConnell in 2003.
Sgt. Keiron McConnell has been demoted and suspended for 20 days after admitting to sexually harassing five women.

Overview

  • Sgt. Keiron McConnell was demoted to first-class constable, suspended for 20 days without pay, and mandated to undergo counselling and training on workplace boundaries.
  • A disciplinary hearing revealed McConnell sent unsolicited sexualized messages and attempted unwanted contact with two fellow officers and three university students between 2015 and 2019.
  • Adjudicator Carol Baird Ellan described McConnell’s behaviour as predatory and indicative of grooming, capitalizing on his position of power over younger individuals.
  • Ellan recommended the Vancouver Police Department adopt standalone sexual harassment policies, specialized training, and protections for complainants to prevent retaliation.
  • Critics argue the discipline is insufficient, citing McConnell’s potential reinstatement to a leadership role within 12 months as a continued risk to subordinates and others.