Courage & Character: Edmonton Police Whistleblower with Dan Behiels EP14

Melanie Wakelin interviews Dan Behiels, a former police officer and whistleblower from the Edmonton Police Service. Dan shares his journey from a military upbringing to a career in law enforcement, culminating in his decision to expose wrongdoing within the police force. He discusses the challenges faced by whistleblowers in Canada, including the lack of legal protections and the moral complexities involved in reporting misconduct. Dan emphasizes the importance of courage, character, and personal responsibility in both policing and society at large, offering insights and advice for those considering a career in law enforcement or facing similar dilemmas. In this conversation, Daniel Behiels discusses the challenges and changes needed in education, the importance of courage and character in teaching, and the role of whistleblowers in society. He reflects on his experiences in policing, the gaps in the justice system, and the need for better mental health support and community connections. Daniel emphasizes the importance of accountability and transparency in institutions and shares his aspirations for future involvement in public service and political reform.

Key Takeaways:

• Whistleblowing revealed a lack of protections for municipal employees in Canada.
• Dan's whistleblowing event involved reporting criminal activity within the police service.
• The legal landscape for whistleblowers in Canada is inadequate and poorly structured.
• Whistleblowers often face retaliation and lack support from institutions.
• Courage and character are essential qualities for individuals in law enforcement.
• Dan encourages future police officers to uphold their responsibilities and act with integrity. 
• Apprenticeships provide practical skills that traditional education lacks.
• Whistleblowers play a crucial role in holding institutions accountable.
• Radical transparency can enhance organizational effectiveness.
• The justice system often fails to address repeat offenders adequately.

Episode References:

Whistle Blowing Article: Behind the blue line: Investigating Abdullah Shah

Whistleblowing Canada Research Society: https://www.whistleblowingcanada.com/

Connect with Dan:

X: @DanielBehiels

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Website: https://activateandilluminate.com/

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