RCMP's systemic failures led to Susan Butlin's murder, report reveals

An independent report has found that the RCMP mishandled every aspect of Susan Butlin’s case before her murder in 2017. The 58-year-old woman had previously reported sexual assault and harassment by her killer, Ernie Ross (Junior) Duggan, but police failed to act. Experts now argue that little has changed in how such cases are handled by authorities. Susan Butlin was killed by Duggan on 17 September 2017. Before her death, she had repeatedly contacted the RCMP about his threats and assaults. Despite her reports, no meaningful action was taken.

The independent police watchdog’s report confirmed systemic failures in Butlin’s case. Nova Scotia RCMP assistant commissioner Dan Morrow admitted the force let her and her family down at every level. Myrna Dawson, director of the Canadian Femicide Observatory, claimed there was never a proper investigation into Butlin’s complaints. In response, the RCMP is now reviewing all sexual assault cases led by Cpl. Patrick Crooks, the officer in charge of Butlin’s case, where no charges were filed. Spokesperson Cindy Bayers stated the force has since improved training and investigation procedures. Yet, trauma therapist Kristina Fifield insists victims of gender-based violence are still routinely dismissed by police. Opposition NDP leader Claudia Chender has demanded stronger measures to combat gender-based violence and hold the RCMP accountable for its failures.

The RCMP’s review of past cases comes after years of criticism over its handling of gender-based violence. While the force claims reforms have been made, experts and politicians stress that real change has yet to be seen. The failures in Butlin’s case continue to raise concerns about systemic neglect.