A Saskatchewan man is suing the RCMP for more than $25 million, claiming officers violated his rights and caused serious harm.
Brent Habetler of Radisson, Sask., filed the lawsuit on March 10 in the Court of King’s Bench. He alleges the RCMP falsely accused him of crimes and mistreated him during and after his arrest in March 2023.
Read more: Bail or jail: Habetler’s system tour
According to the statement of claim, RCMP officers allegedly posted a photo of Habetler online, calling him a convicted felon. However, he says he had no criminal record. He claims this led to public hatred, threats, and even physical harm.
The lawsuit also says officers lied, tampered with evidence, and made up charges. Additionally, Habetler says he was denied food, water, and bathroom access for over two days while in custody.
Moreover, Habetler accuses over 50 officers of making false statements and sharing private information. He says this continued for months, even after charges were dropped or rejected by the Crown.
Habetler says he lost jobs, friends, and his reputation. He claims RCMP officers even contacted his employers and told them not to hire him.
According to the lawsuit, the RCMP’s actions broke several sections of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. These include the right to liberty, fair treatment, and equal protection under the law.
As a result, Habetler is asking the court to ban the RCMP from policing in Saskatchewan. He also wants all officers involved to be fired or disciplined. In addition, he wants policy changes so that only people convicted of crimes appear in RCMP media releases.
He is also asking for a public apology from the RCMP.
The RCMP has not yet filed a statement of defence.
Read more: RCMP cuff Habetler, release on house arrest
