Former Military HR Head Files Lawsuit Against Armed Forces and Government Following Misconduct Allegations
A former military leader accused of sexual misconduct in 2021 is suing the federal government, the Armed Forces, and his accuser. He claims he was maliciously prosecuted for political reasons.
Lt.-Gen. Steven Whelan has filed a statement of claim in Federal Court seeking damages and a public apology.
The claim alleges that the military and Defence Department should apologize for the “abuse of office, negligent investigation, malicious prosecution, and involvement in the media leaks that destroyed his reputation and career.”
The lawsuit lists defendants, including defence chief Gen. Wayne Eyre and vice-chief Lt.-Gen. Frances Allen, among others. It also accuses his accuser of misrepresenting facts and defaming him.
The claim further alleges that the Prime Minister’s Office and Privy Council Office acted in response to public and political pressure.
According to the claim, individuals with inappropriate motives influenced various military processes, reflecting a military still influenced by improper political interference.
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The allegations in the claim have not been tested in court.
Whelan was accused in late 2021 of an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate. He was placed on leave while under investigation.
After civilian police found no basis for criminal charges, the military charged him with conduct violating good order and discipline.
The case went to court martial last fall, and the charges were eventually dropped.
During Whelan’s accusation, the Armed Forces faced controversy over multiple high-ranking leaders accused of sexual misconduct.
This led to an external review by former Supreme Court justice Louise Arbour, who recommended significant changes to the military’s culture and approach to sexual misconduct cases.
Some military leaders were criminally charged, including Whelan’s predecessor, former vice-admiral Haydn Edmundson.
Edmundson faced trial for sexual assault allegations from 1991, with a verdict pending in July.
Maj.-Gen. Dany Fortin was removed from his position overseeing Canada’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout due to an investigation into a 1988 allegation.
He was later acquitted of sexual assault charges in civilian court, with the Armed Forces also clearing him of any wrongdoing.
Fortin filed a lawsuit against several officials, reaching a settlement with the government in October.
