Betrayal of Trust: The Harsh Reality of Trauma-Informed Policing

The Ottawa Police Service’s handling of Keara Dean’s case has left many questions unanswered. One thing is clear, however: the force’s response to her trauma was woefully inadequate. As a social worker and survivor of historical sexual assault, Dean was already vulnerable when she reached out for help in 2022. Instead of receiving support and care, she was met with blame, shame, and a lack of understanding.

The mediation process in 2023 turned into a nightmare for Dean. She was told that she hadn’t mentioned “historical sexual violence” when reporting the incident, despite having clearly stated it on the phone. This assertion was made by civilian employees of the reporting line, who left her alone in a locked room with an officer from the professional standards section.

The request for Dean to sign a withdrawal of complaint form is a stark example of the force’s disregard for trauma-informed policing. This approach ignores the very real emotional distress that survivors experience when reporting crimes and is both unprofessional and unethical. The form had been filled out in the first person on her behalf, which further eroded trust.

The Ottawa Police Service’s response to Dean’s concerns has been half-hearted and dismissive. In an emailed statement, they acknowledged that her experience caused her further distress but failed to provide any meaningful explanation or apology for their actions. This lack of accountability is disappointing but not surprising, given the force’s history of mishandling complaints and covering up misconduct.

The incident highlights a broader issue within law enforcement: the tendency to prioritize institutional interests over individual well-being. When survivors like Dean come forward, they are often met with resistance, blame, or even revictimization. This is not only a betrayal of trust but also a failure of the system’s promise to support and protect those who have been harmed.

The consequences of such an approach can be far-reaching. Survivors may feel re-traumatized, leading to long-term emotional and psychological damage. They may also be discouraged from reporting crimes in the future, perpetuating a cycle of silence and impunity. The Ottawa Police Service’s actions undermine public trust in law enforcement, making it harder for communities to feel safe and confident in their ability to report crimes without fear of retaliation or blame.

The force must take concrete steps to address these problems. This includes providing trauma-informed training for officers and civilian employees, revising policies to prioritize survivor-centered care, and implementing robust systems for tracking and addressing complaints. Anything less would be a betrayal of the public’s trust and a failure of the police service’s duty to serve and protect.

Keara Dean’s case serves as a stark reminder that trauma-informed policing is not just a desirable goal but a necessary one. The Ottawa Police Service must take responsibility for their actions and work towards creating a more supportive and compassionate environment for survivors like Dean. Anything less would be a disservice to those who have been harmed and a threat to the very fabric of trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

The hard truth is that many police services still struggle with providing trauma-informed care, despite good intentions. The consequences can be devastating, leaving survivors feeling broken, blamed, or betrayed by the institution meant to support them. As we watch the Ottawa Police Service navigate this crisis, it’s essential to acknowledge the larger pattern of mistrust and trauma that underlies so much of modern policing.

Ultimately, what will it take for law enforcement agencies to truly prioritize survivor-centered care? Will it be public outcry, lawsuits, or growing awareness among survivors and advocates? Whatever the catalyst, one thing is clear: the time for change is now.