When a report is made to the CCES through the Canadian Safe Sport Program (CSSP) that is under our jurisdiction, the CSSP team determines how it will be resolved. In some instances, we may determine that a report requires an investigation.
The CCES contracts independent, external firms to conduct investigations under the CSSP Rules that are required to follow specific guidelines during investigations. Firms are selected using an extensive list of criteria. This includes investigators who are trained to recognize trauma and understand how it can impact an individual, are equipped to handle sensitive interactions, and are trained to gather information in a way that minimizes the risk of re-traumatization.
An investigator’s role is to determine the facts of a reported incident by interviewing individuals, including the person whose behaviour was reported, the person who experienced the maltreatment, and any witnesses. The investigator may also request documents related to the investigation, such as texts, emails, social media messages, or other recordings.
Using the information gathered, the investigator provides a report to the CCES with their findings within 75 days of the investigation starting. The CCES uses this information to assist in determining if an individual violated the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS) and, if so, whether sanctions should be imposed.
CSSP Rules 14 and 15 have more information on the investigative process. Learn more about the CSSP report process.