Ottawa police chief warns officers to stop abusing databases for sexual misconduct

Ottawa’s police chief is warning officers to stop using police databases to target women for romantic or sexual relationships.

In a video message posted to social media, Chief Eric Stubbs said some officers have improperly looked up women they’ve seen in public, contacted vulnerable victims after calls, and engaged in sexual harassment and assault.

Stubbs called the conduct “unacceptable,” telling members to either change their behaviour or leave the force.

“I want to have a serious and uncomfortable conversation with all of you,” said Stubbs. “Change your behaviour now, or quit — leave. Members are using our databases as their own way to meet women.”

The warning follows recent misconduct cases and comes as Ottawa police face pressure to address gender-based harassment, abuse of authority, and workplace culture issues.

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