VPD sergeant ordered dismissed after 'inappropriate' relationship with junior officer

A senior Vancouver Police Department sergeant has been ordered dismissed after a lengthy investigation into his relationship with a junior officer.

The investigation, undertaken by the Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner, found that Sgt. David Van Patten was in an "inappropriate" relationship with Const. Nicole Chan.

The investigation into the officer was launched in April, 2019, according to Deputy Police Complaint Commissioner Andrea Spindler.

Investigators substantiated three allegations of discreditable conduct levied against Van Patten. He has been ordered dismissed.

Van Patten can appeal the decision through a public hearing.

In a statement, Chan's family members said they were satisfied with the decision but are still concerned with the events leading up to her death.

"The termination of Sgt. Van Patten represents one step in our ongoing efforts to get justice for Nicole. More needs to be done to hold those who abused their power accountable, and for Nicole's friends and family, this issue is far from resolved," read a statement from her sister, Jenn Chan, who is also a CBC employee.

Vancouver police Const. Tania Visintin said in a statement the department respects the police complaint commissioner process and the final outcome.

"We continue to grieve the loss of Const. Chan and provide support to our membership as needed. The Vancouver police will continue to be in touch with Const. Chan's family," said Visintin.