regina police chief farooq sheikh

Regina Police Chief Farooq Sheikh Fired After Inappropriate Messages: What We Know So Far

The Regina Police Service is facing a leadership crisis after Chief Farooq Sheikh was fired with cause following an investigation into his conduct. The decision, announced by the Regina Board of Police Commissioners, marks a dramatic end to Sheikh’s tenure, which began just two years ago. The firing stems from an investigation by the Saskatchewan Public Complaints Commission (PCC) into allegations of misconduct, including inappropriate text messages to a police board member. Here’s what we know about the case, its implications, and what might come next.

The Firing: Verified Facts and Official Statements

On October 28, 2025, the Regina Board of Police Commissioners confirmed that Chief Farooq Sheikh had been terminated with cause following the PCC’s investigation. The board stated that the decision was based on findings that Sheikh had engaged in behavior "unbecoming of a chief of police" (CBC News).

Key verified details:
- No severance pay: Mayor Chad Bachynski, a member of the board, confirmed Sheikh was fired "with cause," meaning he will not receive severance.
- Inappropriate messages: The PCC found that Sheikh exchanged inappropriate text messages with an unnamed member of the Board of Police Commissioners (CBC, 980 CJME).
- Investigation timeline: Sheikh was placed on leave in April 2025 pending the investigation, which lasted over six months.
- No public details yet: The full PCC report has not been released, and the board has not disclosed the exact nature of the messages or other alleged misconduct.

In a statement, the board emphasized that the decision was made to "uphold public trust and accountability" (Regina Police Service).

Recent Updates: Timeline of Key Events

Here’s a breakdown of the major developments, based on verified sources:

April 2025

• Sheikh is placed on leave after a community member files a complaint against him.
• The Saskatchewan Public Complaints Commission launches an investigation.

October 2025

• October 28: The PCC completes its investigation and submits findings to the Regina Board of Police Commissioners.
• The board votes to terminate Sheikh’s contract with immediate effect.
• The Regina Police Service releases a brief statement confirming the termination but providing no further details.
• Mayor Bachynski confirms the firing is "with cause," signaling serious misconduct.

What’s Next?

• The PCC is expected to release its full report in the coming weeks, which could shed more light on the misconduct allegations.
• The Regina Police Service will likely appoint an interim chief while the search for a permanent replacement begins.

Context: Why This Matters

Leadership Crisis in Regina’s Police Force

Sheikh’s firing raises concerns about police accountability, workplace culture, and public trust. His hiring in 2023 was seen as a fresh start for the force, which has faced scrutiny in the past over racial profiling, use-of-force incidents, and Indigenous relations.

• Sheikh’s background: Before Regina, he served as Deputy Chief in Edmonton, where he led diversity and inclusion initiatives. His appointment was praised as a step toward modernizing the force.
• Short tenure: His abrupt exit after just two years undermines stability in a department already dealing with recruitment and morale issues.

Precedent: Police Chiefs Fired Over Misconduct

This isn’t the first time a Canadian police chief has been fired for inappropriate behavior:
- 2020: Calgary Police Chief Mark Neufeld resigned amid an investigation into workplace harassment.
- 2017: Toronto Police Chief Mark Saunders faced criticism for failing to address systemic racism (though he wasn’t fired).

The PCC’s involvement also highlights Saskatchewan’s strict oversight of law enforcement conduct, with the commission having subpoena powers and authority to recommend dismissals.

Immediate Effects: What This Means for Regina

1. Public Trust at Risk

• The lack of transparency around the misconduct allegations could fuel public skepticism.
• Community groups are calling for full disclosure of the PCC report to ensure accountability.

2. Operational Disruption

• With no permanent chief in place, the force may face leadership gaps in policy decisions and community engagement.
• Interim leadership will need to address ongoing issues, including crime rates and officer morale.

3. Legal and Financial Fallout

• Since Sheikh was fired "with cause," he has no legal right to severance—but could still challenge the termination in court if he disputes the findings.
• The city may face lawsuits if the PCC report reveals systemic failures in oversight.

4. Political Repercussions

• Mayor Bachynski and the police board are under pressure to explain why Sheikh was hired despite potential red flags.
• Saskatchewan’s provincial government could face calls for stronger police oversight reforms.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for Regina’s Police Force?

Short-Term (Next 3-6 Months)

• Interim chief appointment: The board will likely promote an internal candidate or bring in an outside leader temporarily.
• PCC report release: The findings could trigger policy changes or further investigations.
• Community backlash or support: Public reactions will depend on how transparent the process is.

Long-Term (6-12+ Months)

• New hiring process: The board will need to rebuild trust in the selection process for the next chief.
• Workplace culture reforms: The case may prompt mandatory training on ethics and professional conduct.
• Legal battles: If Sheikh challenges the firing, it could lead to prolonged litigation.

Broader Implications for Canadian Policing

• This case could set a precedent for how police chiefs are held accountable for off-duty conduct.
• It may push other forces to strengthen internal oversight to prevent similar scandals.

Final Thoughts: A Test for Accountability

The termination of Farooq Sheikh is a watershed moment for Regina’s police force and a reminder that no leader is above scrutiny. While the full details remain unclear, the case underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership in law enforcement.

For Regina residents, the biggest question now is whether the next chief will restore trust—or if this scandal will leave lasting scars on the department. One thing is certain: the eyes of Saskatchewan—and Canada—are watching.

Stay tuned as more details emerge from the PCC report and the Regina Police Service’s next steps.