The city of St. John’s says it is unfortunate that a confidential and internal investigation into alleged workplace harassment conducted for St. John’s Sports and Entertainment was leaked to media.

The report, which was completed in March of 2021, was leaked to a number of media outlets, including VOCM, which received a cease and desist order from city legal counsel Tuesday afternoon on any release, sharing, publication or reporting on the report.

The city started receiving inquiries from reporters, including VOCM News on November 16th.

The city says distribution and disclosure of the information contained in the report poses a risk of serious harm to the participants in the investigation.

Mayor Danny Breen, in a statement issued today, says the breach is considered a serious matter and they have advised the office of the Privacy Commissioner.

St. John’s Sports and Entertainment has notified employees involved in the investigation and is providing whatever supports are necessary to prevent further harm from occurring.

Deacon Sports and Entertainment Responds

Deacon Sports and Entertainment has released a statement in response to the leaked report, which can be seen below.

DSE was not part of the March 2021 investigation. DSE was not provided a copy of the final report from the March 2021 investigation including the allegations or findings. There will be no further comment at this time.