Former Sunshine Coast RCMP detachment commander Kevin Picard is suing the force for allegedly damaging his reputation, causing mental suffering and unfairly dismissing him while on medical leave.
On July 20 Picard filed the claim in the Supreme Court of B.C., which details alleged infractions by the RCMP dating as far back as 2007.
The claim stated Picard passed a yearly performance evaluation in June of 2008, but said in July the inspector who did the evaluation "requested meetings with some non-commissioned officers to discuss Picard's command and morale issues."
Following those interviews, Picard said he asked for a copy of the report, but was not given one.
In December more interviews were conducted with support staff at the detachment.
Picard said he again requested a report of the findings.
In early 2009 a report was produced that suggested ways Picard might improve as a commander.
Picard said he asked the inspector to elaborate on his suggestions but alleged the inspector refused.
On or around March 31, 2009 Picard went on medical leave for surgery, anticipating he would return to work in six months.
While he was away a special review was done at the detachment. Picard said he was not told about the special review or its scope.
When he asked for a copy of the review in July, Picard said he was given only a two-page summary.
"The RCMP did not provide Picard with any additional pages of the special review until Picard made a request under the Privacy Act," his claim stated.
Soon Picard said his privileges with the RCMP were taken away, first his email access, then his work laptop and cell phone. By July 2009 he said he had to turn in his intervention equipment including his baton, pepper spray, handgun and handgun case.
"Relinquishing his intervention equipment to a subordinate officer was a humiliating experience for Picard," his claim read.
By October 2009 Picard said he had recovered from his surgery, but that he could not return to work due to a worsening of his post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He had been diagnosed with PTSD in 2005, long before starting as commander at the Sunshine Coast detachment.
In July 2010, Picard said he was advised his position at the Sunshine Coast detachment would have to be filled by someone else, but that a "like position" would be found when he returned to work.
In August Picard said he refused a transfer and in January 2011, he was removed from the position. By the end of the month, a new permanent commanding officer was hired.
In November of that year, Picard started a gradual return to work, responsible for administrative duties in the Lower Mainland. He alleged he was treated differently than other officers coming back from medical leave and was unable to secure a "like position" as was allegedly promised.
"As a direct and foreseeable consequence of the defendants' intentional and malicious or reckless conduct, Picard has suffered permanent and irreparable harm including extreme embarrassment, loss of reputation, loss of posting and promotional opportunities, extreme emotional distress and anxiety, and has resulted in a visible and provable illness by increasing the severity of his PTSD and has prolonged his recovery," his claim stated.
The RCMP have yet to explain their version of the events, but say they are looking forward to discussing the matter in court.
"We can certainly say that the civil claim contains unproven allegations filed by Mr. Picard and obviously we look forward to court when all the statements will be made under oath and subject to cross examination," said Cpl. Annie Linteau media relations officer for E-division in Vancouver.
