Nova Scotia

More complainants come forward in Halifax investigation linked to retired RCMP doctor

Halifax police say an investigation involving a doctor accused of sexually assaulting RCMP recruits and members includes both male and female complainants.

Police spokesperson describes situation as 'very fluid,' with number of people changing on daily basis

Row upon row of Mounties in red serge wearing their traditional stetson hats.
RCMP say 'dozens' of RCMP officers and recruits have brought forward allegations that they were sexually assaulted by a doctor at the Mounties' health clinic in Nova Scotia over two decades. (Jason Franson/Canadian Press)

An investigation involving a doctor accused of sexually assaulting RCMP recruits and members includes both male and female complainants, Halifax police say.

Police spokesperson Const. Carol McIsaac said more than 20 people had come forward as of Wednesday morning to say they'd been sexually assaulted by the RCMP doctor between 1981 and 2003.

She says the complaints come from both men and women, while the RCMP has said the complainants were either applicants looking to join the force or serving members who were receiving treatment at the clinic.

The force's commanding officer in Nova Scotia, Assistant Commissioner Brian Brennan, has said he expects "many more" people to come forward as the investigation unfolds.

McIsaac said complaints started coming into police on the weekend and described the situation "as very fluid," with the number of complainants changing on a daily basis.

Brennan has said it is disheartening that an employee of the police force allegedly abused their position of power.

Police have said the physician is now retired.

Meanwhile, Toronto police said Wednesday they are investigating sexual assault allegations against a doctor with the RCMP's Ontario division.

With files from CBC Toronto