An RCMP officer based in British Columbia, Const. Mersad Mesbah, is facing potential dismissal due to inappropriate language use in a private group chat and messages exchanged through the force’s data terminals. Despite this, Mesbah emphasizes that his overall conduct as a police officer over the years should be considered in evaluating the situation.
Mesbah, along with two other officers stationed at the Coquitlam detachment, is accused of engaging in discreditable conduct during a hearing. During the proceedings in Richmond, BC, a lawyer representing the RCMP conduct authority raised concerns about Mesbah’s remarks regarding a female complainant and a female colleague, suggesting a display of “hatred” towards women.
In response, Mesbah admitted to making ill-judged jokes and expressing frustration inappropriately. However, he asserts that these actions do not reflect his overall approach to conducting investigations. He highlights his extensive efforts in dealing with cases involving domestic violence, sexual assaults, and child abuse as evidence of his dedication to his policing duties.
Originally from Iran and not fluent in English upon arriving in Canada, Mesbah acknowledges using language that he now recognizes as vulgar. He expresses remorse for his past use of inappropriate terms and pledges to refrain from such language in the future.