Military's former head of HR sues government, others for millions over handling of misconduct claims

Claiming they destroyed his career to score political points after he was accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate, Lt.-Gen. Steven Whelan is suing his accuser, the federal government, Canada's top soldier and other military officials for $10 million in damages.

Military prosecutors withdrew the service offence charges against Whelan last year.

He was accused by military prosecutors of giving a female military member a better score on her performance evaluation report in 2011 to stop her from reporting «flirtatious» emails he sent her.

Whelan's lawyer last year said his client made «a mistake» by engaging in a «personal relationship» with a subordinate, but nothing sexual happened between them. Whelan pleaded not guilty to the charges.

• Military's former HR head pleads not guilty to charge related to alleged inappropriate relationship

In a statement of claim processed Tuesday in Federal Court, Whelan's lawyer argues the defendants should pay $8 million in damages for his lost promotions and opportunities, another $1.5 million for damage to his reputation and $500,000 for violating his Charter rights.

Whelan was «on a path towards competing» to be named chief of the defence staff and «likely would have been appointed» as vice chief, the statement of claim says. His opportunities to enter the private sector were also damaged by the charges, the lawsuit alleges.

«He was the most decorated General Officer at the time of his removal,» the statement of claim says. «But for the reputation damage suffered, his opportunities in the private sector were enormously wide and lucrative. He will be denied millions of dollars in lost income and opportunities earned through a life of service and sacrifice to his