Lethbridge Police Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh is currently undergoing a disciplinary hearing following allegations that he violated COVID-19 public health restrictions in 2021 by dining with a civilian police chaplain. The complaint originated from former Deputy Chief Scott Woods and prompted multiple investigations, with most allegations initially dismissed. However, after an appeal, three remaining allegations related to discreditable conduct and neglect of duty are now being formally reviewed. The hearing, mandated by the Law Enforcement Review Board, began in April 2025 and is scheduled to conclude in June 2025, underscoring ongoing concerns about police accountability during the pandemic.
The disciplinary hearing for Lethbridge Police Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh centers on an incident that took place in 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chief Mehdizadeh is accused of breaching Alberta’s public health orders by sharing a meal with a civilian police chaplain, an action that seemingly contravened the restrictions intended to limit indoor gatherings and mitigate virus transmission. The complaint was originally filed by former Deputy Chief Scott Woods, highlighting internal concerns within the police department regarding adherence to safety protocols.
Following the initial complaint, multiple internal and external investigations were conducted. Most of the allegations against Chief Mehdizadeh were dismissed in these preliminary inquiries, suggesting insufficient evidence or procedural justification to pursue formal disciplinary action. However, the decision was challenged through an appeal process overseen by the Law Enforcement Review Board (LERB), a provincial body responsible for ensuring professional standards in policing.
Details of Allegations and Appeal Process
The appeal resulted in the reinstatement of three allegations specifically focusing on discreditable conduct and neglect of duty. These charges imply that Chief Mehdizadeh’s actions not only violated public health guidelines but also potentially undermined public trust and confidence in the police force. Discreditable conduct refers to behavior that damages the reputation of the police service, while neglect of duty suggests a failure to fulfill professional responsibilities during a critical public health crisis.
The disciplinary hearing, which commenced in April 2025, aims to carefully evaluate the evidence presented and determine whether Chief Mehdizadeh’s conduct warrants sanctions. The proceedings are expected to run through June 2025, reflecting the complexity and significance of the case.
Context and Implications for Police Accountability
This hearing takes place against a broader backdrop of increased scrutiny of law enforcement officials’ compliance with COVID-19 restrictions across Canada. Many police departments faced public criticism during the pandemic for inconsistent enforcement of health orders, raising questions about institutional accountability and leadership example-setting.
The case involving Chief Mehdizadeh underscores these tensions, illustrating the challenge of balancing operational responsibilities with adherence to evolving public health directives. Ensuring transparent and impartial review processes is crucial for maintaining community trust, especially in times of public health emergencies where police actions directly impact societal well-being.
Next Steps and Potential Outcomes
The Law Enforcement Review Board will oversee the hearing process and review findings to ensure procedural fairness. Depending on the evidence and rulings, Chief Mehdizadeh could face a range of disciplinary measures, from formal reprimands to more severe consequences such as suspension or termination. The outcome will also set a precedent for how similar cases might be managed in the future, influencing standards for police conduct in emergency contexts.
Observers and community members await the conclusion of the hearing, recognizing its importance for reinforcing principles of accountability and integrity within the Lethbridge Police Service. Updates will be provided as the hearing progresses and further information becomes available.
Conclusion
The disciplinary hearing involving Lethbridge Police Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh represents a critical moment for police accountability amid the ongoing evaluation of public officials’ adherence to COVID-19 restrictions. As the Law Enforcement Review Board carefully examines allegations of discreditable conduct and neglect of duty, the case highlights the importance of maintaining trust and integrity within law enforcement agencies during public health crises. The outcome of this hearing will not only impact Chief Mehdizadeh’s career but may also influence future standards and expectations for police conduct in similar situations. The community and stakeholders will continue to monitor the proceedings closely as the process unfolds.