Former head of Surrey RCMP dismissed as B.C.’s top cop

The former head of the Surrey RCMP has been “relieved of his duties” as the head of the B.C. RCMP due to unspecified allegations.

Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald will no longer be in the top job following allegations dating back to 2016 to 2018, said a statement from the RCMP.

“These allegations were recently brought to the attention of the RCMP,” said Mike Duheme, RCMP Commissioner. “Investigations are ongoing. We are treating this matter with the attention and diligence it requires. We will not be providing further details at this time.”

Premier David Eby, however, said that the public deserves to know more about what happened.

“I do know that the RCMP is engaging in a process to ensure that that this is properly investigated, and I look forward to any reports and information they may have to share with the public about that,” the premier said. 

“I think that ultimately the public deserves to know why the head RCMP officer in British Columbia was removed. But I also know that it is crucial, both for anyone who’s bringing forward allegations, as well as for Mr. McDonald, that that’s done properly.”

The new officer now in charge of the RCMP in B.C. will be John Brewer, who has been heading up the anti-extortion task force that has been handling the crisis that has hit Surrey in the past year.

Brewer stirred controversy when he pushed back against using the word “crisis” to describe the wave of crimes that have hit Surrey – he later apologized.

“I recognize that changes of this nature may be concerning for our employees, partners, and the communities we serve,” Duheme said. “Commanding Officers play a critical role in the delivery of policing services, and it is important that we maintain continuity and stability in leadership. John Brewer is a respected member of the RCMP’s senior leadership team and is fully aware of the policing priorities and engaged in the policing needs of British Columbia. He has my full confidence as interim Commanding Officer, as well as the confidence of the Senior Executive Committee. I want to reassure you that there will be no impact on RCMP operations or policing services in the province. We remain focused on our mandate and on maintaining the trust and confidence of the people and communities we serve.”