Man detained under Mental Health Act called 'loser' by Joe Smyth days after Dunphy shooting
RNC officer Tim Buckle tells public inquiry he and Smyth used 'inappropriate' language in texts
Just days after RNC Const. Joe Smyth shot and killed Don Dunphy in Mitchells Brook he described another man who tweeted about the shooting and was detained by police under the Mental Health Act, a "loser."
It's the word he used in a private message sent to his friend and colleague in the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, Sgt. Tim Buckle, on April 7, 2015, as the two discussed a man detained in Corner Brook.
Smyth, 38, shot and killed Dunphy in his St. Mary's Bay home on April 5, 2015, after going there to investigate tweets Dunphy had posted about politicians.
Here's the exchange he had with Buckle two days later.
Buckle: "Arrested Abbass under MHCTA."
Smyth: "Saw that! Nice."
Buckle: "He's at hospital now."
Smyth: "Loser."
Buckle: "Yup.'
On Friday, Buckle was asked about the conversation by commission co-counsel Sandra Chaytor.
"I'm not saying it's acceptable," said Buckle.
"Sometimes in private conversations we use unacceptable language."
Buckle gave Smyth advice
Text messages disclosed this week by the RCMP during the public inquiry into the 2015 shooting death show Buckle gave Smyth advice about what to tell investigators after he fatally shot Dunphy.
Buckle, who described Smyth as his 'best friend," spoke with Smyth via text on April 5, the day of the shooting in Mitchells Brook.
On Jan. 18 Smyth testified at the inquiry that he did not consult with anyone while preparing his statement.
Past trouble
Buckle's past conduct came under review in 2012 after he told another officer he was about to be investigated for making indecent calls and committing public mischief.
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