Edmonton Police Chief Loses Appeal Bid in Officer’s Job Controversy
Edmonton’s police chief, Dale McFee, has lost his bid to appeal a review board’s decision allowing an officer to keep his job despite being involved in multiple thefts. Constable David Ahlstrom was initially assigned to guard a homicide scene in 2016 when he stole $300 in cash from the crime scene. This incident, as well as two subsequent thefts in 2017, led to Ahlstrom being charged with theft and breach of trust. In 2018, he was sentenced to 18 months of probation.
Following the conclusion of criminal proceedings, Ahlstrom faced 10 counts of misconduct under the Police Service Regulation. He pleaded guilty to all charges. During his disciplinary hearing, Ahlstrom testified, along with two psychiatrists and a forensic psychologist, stating that he had been diagnosed with PTSD and major depressive disorder prior to the first theft in 2016. However, the presiding officer at the hearing concluded that the severity of Ahlstrom’s misconduct outweighed the influence of his mental health concerns, resulting in his dismissal.
Ahlstrom appealed his dismissal and brought his case to the Law Enforcement Review Board (LERB). In March of this year, the LERB allowed the appeal, stating that Ahlstrom provided enough evidence of a causal relationship between his misconduct and his mental health concerns to mitigate the penalty. Overruling the disciplinary decision, the LERB imposed a penalty of reduction in rank for two years.
Chief McFee sought to appeal the LERB ruling but was denied by Justice Jolaine Antonio of the Alberta Court of Appeal. While Justice Antonio acknowledged that the grounds of appeal could potentially succeed, she determined that the legal questions raised were well-settled and did not warrant further scrutiny by an appeal panel.
The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is currently reviewing the LERB’s decision and deciding on the next steps. Throughout the proceedings, Ahlstrom was suspended without pay. EPS will need to navigate the outcome and determine the appropriate course of action regarding Ahlstrom’s future within the force.
This case highlights the complex intersection of misconduct and mental health concerns within the police force. While Ahlstrom’s diagnosis of PTSD and major depressive disorder may have played a role in his actions, the disciplinary hearing concluded that the severity of his thefts warranted dismissal. The LERB, however, considered the mitigating factors of mental health and chose to reduce Ahlstrom’s rank instead. The decision ultimately seeks to strike a balance between accountability and the recognition of mental health struggles.
As the EPS reviews the LERB’s decision, they must carefully consider the implications for the force as a whole. The case raises questions about the appropriate response to instances of misconduct that involve mental health concerns. Balancing accountability with support and rehabilitation for officers facing mental health challenges will be crucial in fostering a healthy and effective police force.
The outcome of this case has broader implications beyond the immediate parties involved. It highlights the ongoing conversations surrounding the mental health of police officers and how best to address disciplinary matters in cases involving mental health disorders. As discussions continue, it is crucial for police departments to develop comprehensive strategies that prioritize the well-being of their officers while maintaining high standards of professionalism and accountability.
