A police sergeant in Edmonton, Canada, was recently demoted after facing allegations of harassment and making crude comments about gay sex. The disciplinary decision comes after a series of incidents between August 2021 and July 2022, while Sgt. Ken Smith served at the Eastwood Police Station.
Smith, who had been with the Edmonton Police Service for 22 years, was stripped of his rank and responsibilities after a departmental hearing found that he showed little remorse for his actions. The demotion led to a $14,000 salary reduction as Smith was downgraded from sergeant to constable.
The controversy arose from three specific incidents during the period of Smith’s service. In one instance, Smith reportedly suggested that two gay officers should not be assigned to work together because they would likely engage in sexual activity during their patrol. In another incident, Smith allegedly made a similar comment, telling two constables that there would be “no hanky-panky” if they worked together. A third event saw Smith singling out three gay officers at a pre-shift meeting, making uncomfortable remarks about them sitting together.
Despite his background in the diversity and hate crimes units of the force and having received a Pride Award in 2011, Smith’s actions were deemed inappropriate and discriminatory. His comments, particularly as a supervisor, were considered damaging, and his lack of understanding of their severity raised concerns among his colleagues and superiors.
Fred Kamins, a retired chief superintendent who led the hearing, criticized Smith for his lack of self-awareness. Kamins questioned how someone with Smith’s experience could make such insensitive remarks, especially considering his previous work with LGBTQ+ initiatives. The report also noted Smith’s deceptive behavior during the investigation and his attempt to deflect responsibility.
Smith has the option to appeal the ruling but will remain ineligible for promotion for two years unless he receives commendations. This case has raised serious concerns about the conduct of officers in positions of power and the need for better sensitivity training within police forces.
