Story perspectives

Edmonton Detective Fired for Leaking Files; Family Sues Police

1/29/2026

Center

Behiels Dismissed for Misconduct

A police tribunal in Edmonton recommended the permanent dismissal of former detective Daniel Behiels for leaking investigative files to a journalist.
Behiels pleaded guilty to misconduct.
The tribunal rejected his whistleblowing defense, citing lack of remorse and insubordination during his suspension.
In El Paso, Texas, the family of Xavier Hernandez filed a federal lawsuit against the police, alleging excessive force during a mental health crisis that led to his death.

Right

Hernandez Family Sues

The family of Xavier Hernandez filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the El Paso Police Department, claiming officers used excessive force during a mental health crisis on July 13, 2025, that resulted in Hernandez's death.
He was unarmed and compliant when officers allegedly tased him multiple times and applied pressure to his neck, leading to asphyxiation.
An autopsy confirmed the cause of death as homicide.

History

Historical Context

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a landmark legislation prohibiting discrimination and empowering individuals to challenge police misconduct. This act emerged from a history of systemic racism and police brutality, exemplified by the Black Panther Party's efforts against such abuses. The recent dismissal of Edmonton detective Daniel Behiels for leaking files highlights ongoing struggles for police accountability, reflecting a persistent demand for reform in North American policing practices.

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Behiels Dismissed for Misconduct

A police tribunal in Edmonton recommended the permanent dismissal of former detective Daniel Behiels for leaking investigative files to a journalist.
Behiels pleaded guilty to misconduct.
The tribunal rejected his whistleblowing defense, citing lack of remorse and insubordination during his suspension.
In El Paso, Texas, the family of Xavier Hernandez filed a federal lawsuit against the police, alleging excessive force during a mental health crisis that led to his death.

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