The Saint John Board of Police Commissioners says a former superintendent filed a conduct complaint against the police chief to hide her poor work performance. The board filed a statement of defence in response to a lawsuit from Samantha McInnis. McInnis sued the board last month. She alleges breach of contract and retaliatory conduct by Chief Robert Bruce over a workplace harassment complaint.

According to a report by CBC News, the board denies any retaliation. The board calls the lawsuit an abuse of process and wants the Court of King’s Bench to dismiss it.

Performance Issues and Harassment Claims

The board claims McInnis struggled significantly in her role within her first five months. They say she lacked critical thinking skills and failed to complete projects. The board informed McInnis on April 23, 2025, that they intended to terminate her employment.

Five days later, McInnis raised allegations of workplace harassment against Chief Bruce. The board says she made vague statements about feeling bullied but provided no specific allegations. The board reminded her of the workplace conduct policy, but she initially declined to file a formal complaint.

Medical Leave and WorkSafeNB Claim

McInnis went on medical leave in May 2025. The board claims she did this to deflect from her performance issues. Three months later, she filed a WorkSafeNB claim. She cited a psychological injury from a traumatic case involving the deaths of two young children. WorkSafeNB approved the claim.

On June 13, McInnis filed a formal complaint with the New Brunswick Police Commission. She accused Chief Bruce of using profanity and mocking officers. An independent investigator found no evidence of a toxic workplace, though they noted the chief made some inappropriate comments in private meetings.

Office Search and Loaded Firearm

The board denies retaliating against McInnis. They say Chief Bruce entered her office nine weeks after she went on medical leave to clear it for other staff. During this process, he found a loaded firearm and two loaded magazines illegally stored in her desk drawer and body armour.

McInnis claims Bruce filed a criminal complaint with the RCMP over the weapon, which resulted in no charges. The board states the illegal storage of a firearm constitutes just cause for termination. The board also alleges McInnis made illegal covert recordings of confidential police meetings.

McInnis resigned in February 2026. She claims constructive dismissal, stating the working conditions forced her to leave. She is seeking damages for lost wages and benefits. Chief Bruce recently announced he will retire in July, three years before his contract ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Samantha McInnis?

Samantha McInnis is a former superintendent with the Saint John Police Force who filed a lawsuit against the police board alleging retaliatory conduct.

What does the Saint John Police Board claim?

The board claims McInnis filed a harassment complaint against the police chief to distract from her poor job performance and impending termination.

Why did McInnis go on medical leave?

McInnis went on medical leave citing a psychological injury from a traumatic case. The board alleges she used the leave to avoid termination for poor performance.

What did the police chief find in McInnis’s office?

Chief Robert Bruce found a loaded firearm and two loaded magazines improperly stored in her office desk and body armour.