A Labrador woman, Roxanne Greene, attended a significant hearing held by the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Public Complaints Commission in St. John’s, as her ex-husband, retired Sgt. Nick Rumbolt, opted not to participate. During the emotional session, Greene accused Rumbolt of breaking into her home in 2009 and sexually assaulting her following a period of intense harassment while he was on duty.

The proceedings on Monday revealed that Rumbolt, who has retired from the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, was not obliged to engage actively in the hearing. His legal representative, John Drover, clarified that while the commission could address the complaint, it lacked authority over the retired officer.

Allegations against Rumbolt include breaches of RNC regulations from 2009 to 2019, encompassing conduct unbecoming of an officer, failure to adhere to procedures, discourtesy to the public, and misuse of his police position for personal gain. Despite the allegations, Rumbolt maintained that the incidents stemmed from a marital dispute and chose not to participate in the proceedings.

Greene recounted an incident in 2009 when Rumbolt intercepted her while she was returning from a restaurant, marking their first encounter since the alleged assault. She attempted to file a complaint at the RNC station in Labrador City but was met with reluctance from officers, including one who dismissed her attempts to report the incident.

In subsequent years, Greene faced renewed distress with rumors of Rumbolt’s potential return to Labrador West in 2018. A confrontation at a community event further escalated tensions, leading to a traffic stop involving Rumbolt. Despite efforts to seek justice, a criminal investigation by the RCMP did not result in charges. Greene later amended her complaint to include the sexual assault allegations, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to prevent similar situations.

The hearing concluded with Greene’s impassioned plea for accountability and reform within the RNC. The proceedings are adjourned until December 7 for further submissions.

For immediate assistance in domestic violence situations, individuals are urged to contact 911 or seek support from crisis lines and local services available through the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada database.