A recent report from a military justice watchdog reveals concerning factors that compromised an investigation into a sexual assault claim against former army officer Dany Fortin. The Military Police Complaints Commission pointed out issues with tunnel vision, bias, and a lack of oversight in the probe of a sexual assault allegation dating back to 1988 when Fortin was at military college.
According to the commission’s final report, there were indications of investigative bias, inadequate supervisory oversight, and a failure to uphold core investigative standards in the handling of Fortin’s case by military investigators. While the evidence did not support Fortin’s assertion of facing undue external pressure, the investigation process raised significant concerns.
Dany Fortin, who held the rank of major-general, was removed from his role leading Canada’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout campaign in May 2021 during the investigation. He was later cleared of one count of sexual assault in a civilian court in December 2022 and retired in 2023 after settling a lawsuit against the military and government officials.
This development underscores the complexities and challenges within military justice and investigative processes, shedding light on the need for thorough oversight and adherence to investigative standards.
