RCMP Commander Dwayne McDonald Removed Amid Misconduct Allegations

Dwayne McDonald, the commanding officer of the RCMP in British Columbia, has been relieved of his duties following allegations of misconduct dating back to 2016. RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme announced the removal on Thursday, August 13, stating the allegations, which span from 2016 to 2018, were recently brought to the force's attention and that investigations are ongoing.

McDonald, who had served as the province's top Mountie since 2021, was the officer in charge of the Surrey RCMP detachment during the period in question. The allegations are unspecified, and the RCMP has declined to provide further details at this time. Duheme said in a statement that the force is treating the matter with the attention and diligence it requires.

John Brewer, an assistant commissioner who most recently headed an extortion task force, has been appointed as interim deputy commissioner and commanding officer of the B.C. RCMP. Duheme expressed full confidence in Brewer, noting he is a respected member of the senior leadership team and is fully aware of the policing priorities in the province. The change is not expected to impact RCMP operations or policing services in B.C.