Ex-Regina police chief says firing was unjustified, welcomes appeal

A statement from Farooq Sheikh's legal representation said the former Regina police chief believes his appeal will demonstrate that the process leading to his dismissal fell short of the principles of fairness. (Angela Stewart / CTV News)

Regina’s former police chief says he’s looking forward to presenting his case during the appeal over his dismissal.

Farooq Sheikh was terminated with cause from his position as chief of Regina Police Service (RPS) last year after an investigation into alleged misconduct.

A statement provided by Sheikh’s legal representation Monday outlined the former chief’s unequivocal belief that his firing from the police service was “unjustified, disproportionate, and wrong.”

“After 33 years of policing in both the United Kingdom and Canada, Mr. Sheikh has consistently demonstrated a commitment to integrity, accountability, and fairness in public service,” the statement read.

“He believes the appeal will demonstrate that the process leading to his dismissal fell short of the principles of fairness and due process that should underpin decisions of this nature.”

Sheikh was terminated with cause from his position as chief of RPS in October 2025 after the investigation found he engaged in “dishonourable conduct” with a former member of the city’s board of police commissioners.

He had previously been removed from active duty that April after a complaint was submitted to the Public Complaints Commission (PCC).

An investigation by the PCC found evidence of improper communications between Sheikh and the board member.

In the statement, the former chief claimed the year since his dismissal has been “extremely difficult” for himself, his family and those closest to him, noting he remains proud of his tenure as the head of RPS.

“Mr. Sheikh now welcomes the opportunity to present his case through the appeal process and remains confident that, when all of the evidence has been heard and carefully considered, it will demonstrate why he believes the decision to terminate his employment was unjustified and wholly disproportionate,” the statement read.

The matter between Sheikh and the Regina Board of Police Commissioners will be heard from Sept. 14-17 and Sept. 23-24.

The hearing will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Conference Centre in Regina.

Sheikh was hired as Regina’s chief of police on Nov. 7, 2023, and assumed the role on Dec. 1 of that year.

Prior to his stint in Regina, Sheikh served as the chief of the Alberta Sheriff’s Service. He also held senior leadership roles with the London Metropolitan Police and West Midland Police in the United Kingdom.

Lorilee Davies, who was serving as interim chief following Sheikh’s dismissal, was appointed to the post permanently in January.

Davies has served as interim chief twice during her 29-year career with RPS.