Email says Sask. RCMP commander Rhonda Blackmore removed because of 'anonymous complaints'
Email from Blackmore, addressed to F Division employees, posted online on June 3
The commander for RCMP in Saskatchewan says she's lost her job because of anonymous complaints.
Rhonda Blackmore sent an email addressed to staff of F Division, which polices Saskatchewan, on Tuesday morning. The email was then posted online. CBC has confirmed its authenticity.
"It is with great disappointment I am writing today to advise you that as of this morning, Tuesday, June 3rd, I have been removed as the Commanding Officer 'F' Division. The decision was made by the Senior Executive at National Headquarters," the email said.
"I have been informed this action is being taken as a result of anonymous complaints against me."
The email did not detail the complaints.
RCMP Saskatchewan media relations did not confirm the dismissal, referring questions to national headquarters.
On Wednesday, the media team provided a statement confirming that Blackmore will, "be away from F Division for an undetermined period of time."
"Effective immediately, Assistant Commissioner Robin McNeil will serve as the interim Commanding Officer of F Division, until a selection process is completed," the statement read.
The statement insisted there will be no impact on front-line policing operations or the safety of people in Saskatchewan.
Blackmore became the commanding officer for Saskatchewan's RCMP in April 2021.
During her tenure, she oversaw a push to attract more First Nations applicants into the force.
She also dealt with the mass murder at James Smith Cree Nation and the subsequent public inquiry.
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With files from Alexander Quon