Vancouver Police Sergeant Admits to Sexual Harassment of Five Women

By Justin Heath

Vancouver Police Department (VPD) Sergeant Keiron McConnell, a veteran officer with over three decades of service, has admitted to sexually harassing five women, including fellow police officers and university students. The admission, made public during a disciplinary hearing on April 9, 2025, has sparked renewed calls for systemic changes within the VPD to address workplace misconduct.

A Pattern of Inappropriate Behavior

McConnell, the longest-serving sergeant in the VPD, faced allegations of sending sexualized messages to two female police officers and three students he taught at British Columbia universities, including Royal Roads University and Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU). The messages, sent via text and social media, included inquiries about the women’s underwear and sexual preferences, creating an environment of discomfort and fear, particularly for students aspiring to careers in policing.

According to an agreed statement of facts presented at the hearing, McConnell’s actions were deemed discreditable conduct under British Columbia’s Police Act. The allegations first surfaced in December 2021, when anonymous comments on a social media post labeled McConnell a “sexual predator.” These claims prompted a female colleague to come forward with a 2018 text exchange in which McConnell’s messages became increasingly sexual, a pattern later corroborated by other complainants.

One student reported feeling unable to reject McConnell’s advances due to his influence in the policing community, fearing repercussions for her academic standing and future career. Another complainant described his messages as “upsetting” and coercive, highlighting the power imbalance inherent in his role as both a senior officer and instructor.

Disciplinary Outcome and Public Response

As part of a resolution reached with the Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner (OPCC), McConnell admitted to misconduct involving five of the seven women who initially came forward. Under the proposed discipline, he faces a 20-day suspension without pay and a demotion from sergeant to constable, a significant fall for an officer of his tenure.

The hearing, the first of its kind under new legislation aimed at streamlining police disciplinary processes in British Columbia, drew attention to broader issues of sexual harassment within the VPD. Marilyn Sandford, counsel for the public hearing, emphasized the need for accountability, reading the agreed facts into the record to ensure transparency.

Public reaction has been one of outrage and scepticism. Posts on X reflect frustration, with users arguing that McConnell’s admission came only after undeniable evidence surfaced and questioning why criminal charges were not pursued. Critics have called the proposed discipline lenient, pointing to the severity of the misconduct and its impact on the victims.

Calls for Systemic Change

The OPCC has urged the VPD to adopt a standalone sexual harassment policy and mandatory training to prevent future incidents. Counsel for the commissioner highlighted McConnell’s case as evidence of a broader cultural issue within the department, where inappropriate behavior has been inadequately addressed. The VPD has acknowledged the need for reform, with discussions underway to implement stronger policies and foster a safer workplace.

McConnell’s case is not an isolated incident. Recent years have seen other VPD officers implicated in misconduct, from derogatory group chats targeting victims to lawsuits alleging gender-based harassment. These incidents have eroded public trust, prompting calls for greater oversight and accountability.

A Tarnished Legacy

McConnell’s 33-year career, once marked by his role as a respected instructor and senior officer, is now overshadowed by his actions. Reports indicate he continued to receive his full salary during the investigation, a detail that has further fuelled criticism of the VPD’s handling of the case. An anonymous source told Victoria Buzz that McConnell’s interactions with other officers during his suspension, including a publicized ride-along with U.K. police, sent a message that his behavior was tacitly condoned by some within the force.

For the victims, the hearing represents a step toward justice, but many challenges remain. Women in policing continue to face barriers to reporting harassment, with fears of retaliation and career sabotage persisting. The OPCC’s push for reform aims to dismantle these barriers, ensuring that no officer can exploit their authority without consequence.

Looking Forward

As the VPD grapples with the fallout of McConnell’s actions, the case serves as a critical test of its commitment to change. The proposed discipline awaits final approval, but for many, the focus lies beyond one officer’s punishment. It’s about building a culture where respect and accountability are non-negotiable, and where those who serve the public are held to the highest standard.

The Vancouver Police Department has yet to issue a detailed public statement on the reforms it plans to implement. For now, the city watches closely, hoping that this moment marks a turning point in addressing systemic issues that have lingered too long.

Justin Heath

Justin Heath is a  freelance writer for Veritas Expositae

You can reach him at justin.heath@veritasexpositae.com