The association representing police officers in New Brunswick disputes claims from the police chief in Saint John that complaints against him are union tactics.
In a statement last week, Chief Robert Bruce called the complaints, made last year, “disappointing and predictable” and said most were dismissed.
He alleged the police union used similar tactics to discredit police management and city officials before his arrival to the force. The chief, who has held the position since 2021, also claimed the complaints were timed to coincide with a challenging labour relations process last year.
2:11
Saint John police chief speaks about future of force as questions swirl around leadership
In a statement, the New Brunswick Police Association said it became aware of multiple workplace harassment complaints against Bruce in September 2025.
Story continues below advertisementThe complaints were filed with the New Brunswick Police Commission and are also before the courts.
More on Canada More videos- Liberal party adopts motion to ban kids under 16 from social media
- City spokesperson says Crystal Pool is safe again, but remains closed until Tuesday
- ‘Nobody gets free pickles on BC Ferries’: Family’s White Spot experience goes viral
- Saskatoon organizations concerned about demand after Prairie Harm Reduction closure
-
![]()
Artemis II astronauts exit NASA’S Orion spacecraft after splashing down on Earth
-
![]()
World fertility rates slide into ‘unprecedented decline’: UN
-
![]()
Global News at 5:30 Okanagan: April 10
-
![]()
Family of slain Surrey woman continues fight for justice
Artemis II astronauts exit NASA’S Orion spacecraft after splashing down on Earth
World fertility rates slide into ‘unprecedented decline’: UN
Global News at 5:30 Okanagan: April 10
Family of slain Surrey woman continues fight for justice
Get breaking National news
Get breaking Canada news delivered to your inbox as it happens so you won't miss a trending story. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Get Started By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.The association said two of the nine workplace harassment complaints were from non-unionized employees.
“The central issue is that the majority of the workplace harassment allegations against Chief Robert Bruce and the toxic workplace he caused have not been investigated on their merits, but rather summarily dismissed,” wrote Bob Davidson, the association’s labour analyst.
“Moreover, the allegations that were investigated were substantiated but resolved informally and no action taken.”
Davidson said the association has previously asked the provincial government’s public safety minister to investigate. He said they are now requesting the minister to “take whatever action is necessary” to investigate the chief’s “demoralizing, disgraceful, destructive statements and actions.”
— with a file from The Canadian Press