Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : Title: CSIS Officers Allege Toxic Workplace Culture and Sexual Assault in British Columbia Unit
Subtitle: Four officers from the B.C. CSIS physical surveillance unit speak out against workplace bullying, harassment, and sexual assault
Date: November 30, 2023
Two officers from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) physical surveillance unit in British Columbia have come forward with shocking allegations of a toxic workplace culture where bullying, harassment, and sexual assault went unchecked. The women, identified as Jane Doe and A.B., are among four officers who have spoken out about their experiences.
Jane Doe, a rookie surveillance officer, alleges that a senior CSIS colleague repeatedly raped her while on duty in CSIS surveillance vehicles between July 2019 and February 2020. She claims that the man, who was supposed to be her mentor, treated his “own needs as more important than doing the job.” A.B., another officer, also states that she was sexually assaulted by the same senior officer during covert missions, despite warnings from Jane Doe.
Both women reported their experiences to their superiors, but claim that nothing was done to address the issue. They also allege that the CSIS internal complaint process was flawed and left them vulnerable to retaliation. The women felt unable to go to the police due to obligations of secrecy and a belief that the organization would cover up the incidents.
These accounts offer a rare unauthorized glimpse into the operations of Canada’s spy agency and highlight the need for systemic change within CSIS. In 2017, five anonymous CSIS workers in the Toronto region sued the Canadian government for racism, sexism, and harassment, shedding light on the ongoing issues within the organization.
CSIS Director David Vigneault acknowledged the presence of harassment and fear of reprisal within the organization in December 2020. However, critics argue that the internal complaint and grievance processes are ineffective in addressing these issues.
The officers involved have chosen to remain anonymous due to legal and professional repercussions or potential retaliation from CSIS. The Canadian Press has also chosen not to name alleged victims of sexual assault unless they publicly identify themselves.
CSIS spokesman Eric Balsam stated that the service takes allegations of inappropriate behavior seriously and is committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all employees. However, the lawsuits filed by Jane Doe and A.B. are still awaiting responses from the courts.
These allegations highlight the urgent need for accountability and change within CSIS to address the toxic workplace culture and prevent further victimization of young female officers.