The head of the RCMP in British Columbia has been dismissed from his position due to unspecified allegations dating back to 2016-2018, as confirmed by a statement from the organization. Dwayne McDonald, the former commanding officer, has been replaced by John Brewer, who previously led the extortion task force in the region.
The statement, issued by RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme, did not disclose further details regarding the allegations at this time. Duheme assured that the change in leadership would not affect RCMP operations or policing services in the province.
The allegations are currently under investigation and were recently brought to the attention of the RCMP as per the statement. McDonald, who also served as the deputy commissioner, had a significant history within the RCMP, having previously been the top official at the Surrey RCMP and overseeing federal and organized crime investigations in British Columbia.
John Brewer, the newly appointed interim commanding officer of the RCMP’s E Division, was commended by Duheme in the statement, expressing full confidence in his abilities and highlighting his esteemed position within the RCMP’s senior leadership team.
McDonald’s biography has been removed from the RCMP’s senior executive committee webpage, where he was recognized for his extensive law enforcement experience spanning three decades and his previous work at the Canada Border Services Agency. McDonald had occupied various key roles, including leading the Lower Mainland’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team and the anti-gang Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit, often appearing at press conferences.
In recognition of his contributions, McDonald was awarded the Order of Merit of the Police Forces in 2015. The B.C. RCMP’s E Division, where McDonald and Brewer held leadership positions, is the largest among the RCMP’s 15 divisions.