After an investigation, the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) has decided there isn’t enough evidence to say two members of the Annapolis Royal Police Service (ARPS) conspired to commit murder. The independent watchdog investigates deaths, injuries and serious matters involving police in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The allegations against the ARPS officers suggests they were discussing harming a well-known offender in the area. What was reported The duo, neither named in SiRT’s report, supposedly met at the first officer’s home in May 2025, and the second suggested they leave their phones in another room. The second officer also allegedly said an associate could take care of it and asked the first officer for the offender’s address. The first officer reportedly said he wanted to be present for it. “The precise details of the discussion remain uncertain, and no independent witnesses are available to verify either account,” reads SiRT’s report from director Erin Nauss. Both officers alleged that the other arranged the meeting, both arguing they never intended to act on the discussion. The first officer said they only went to gather evidence the second officer – who they say arranged the meeting – was “corrupt.” Extortion allegation In May 2026, the second officer allegedly extorted the first by threatening to release a recording of their earlier conversation if the officer didn’t comply with a work matter. The first officer then reported the interactions to another officer, who prepared a police occurrence report addressing both allegations. On May 15, SiRT received a referral from the Chief of Bridgewater Police Service, who was contacted by a member of the ARPS and a member of the Annapolis Royal Board of Police Commissioners. SiRT interviewed three witness officers and interviewed the second officer. The first went on work leave and was not required to testify. The second officer argued the first referred to using “black ops” or “old school justice” during the 2025 meeting, and said he wanted the offender “dealt with.” The officer also denied extorting the first officer, saying they had a heated discussion about a work matter and the first officer only interpreted his remarks as threatening. SiRT says it was unable to contact the offender, who was the subject of the alleged discussions. The watchdog also says it made efforts to find the recording but was unable to find any evidence it exists. “After a careful review of the evidence and the law, I have determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe either of the [subject officers] committed a criminal offence,” reads Nauss’ decision. “The investigation identified concerning conduct and issues involving interpersonal conflict and best practices. These concerns were shared with the Minister of Justice.” For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
