Investigation Conducted by Complaints Body into Military Police’s Handling of Lt.-Gen. Steven Whelan Case

The Military Police Complaints Commission is investigating the military’s handling of the case against a former general who was ousted from his high-ranking position after a sexual misconduct complaint against him.

Lt.-Gen. Steven Whelan claims that the military police investigation in his case was flawed, unprofessional, and incompetent.

He alleges that investigators inadequately documented interactions with the complainant in his case, failed to ask crucial questions and interview key witnesses, and improperly handled evidence.

In 2021, Whelan, who was head of the military’s personnel, faced allegations from a woman who had been his subordinate regarding an inappropriate sexual relationship.

Following the investigation, Whelan was put on leave, and the allegation was reported in the news in October 2021.

In 2022, Whelan was charged by military police with two counts of conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline.

Whelan pleaded not guilty, and the charge related to alleged sexual misconduct was dropped on the first day of the court martial hearings.

The second charge was also dropped after certain evidence was ruled inadmissible by the judge.

In his complaint to the Military Police Complaints Commission, Whelan alleges that the charges against him were coerced and that improper influence from the chain of command may have contributed to shortcomings in the investigation.

He also claims that leaks to the media were not properly investigated, suggesting possible complicity from the military police in enabling these leaks.

The head of the commission considers Whelan’s allegations significant and potentially indicative of a failure to properly investigate the serious allegation of sexual misconduct.

The commission’s chair, Tammy Tremblay, has decided to investigate the case without a hearing at this time, though the seriousness of the issues could warrant public hearings.

Tremblay’s final report will be made public, addressing systemic issues in individual complaints rather than broad, systemic investigations.

Whelan has filed a lawsuit against the federal government and his accuser, seeking acknowledgment and redress for alleged abuse of office, negligent investigation, malicious prosecution, and involvement in damaging his reputation and career.

In a separate development, Maj.-Gen. Dany Fortin filed a lawsuit against high-ranking officials in 2023, reaching a settlement with the government later that year.