An independent investigative capability is essential for the truly fair and impartial administration of military justice. It is a major military justice reform. It was expanded as a result of the Report on Military Justice and Military Police Investigation Services, prepared by the late Chief Justice, the Right Honourable Brian Dickson, and submitted to the Minister of National Defence in March 1997. It has authority and jurisdiction over persons subject to the Code of Service Discipline , wherever Canadian Forces are established or deployed throughout the world, regardless of rank or status. The Ottawa office also conducts international investigations.
All offices can provide general and specialized investigation services.
For example, one area requiring special skills and knowledge is the investigation of computer crime and fraud. They receive direction and report directly to the CF Provost Marshal. Section 156 of the National Defence Act and Section 2 of the Criminal Code of Canada define the powers of military police. They receive their investigative training at the CF School of Intelligence and Security and from various civilian police colleges across the country. An Accountability Framework between the Vice-Chief of Defence Staff and the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal has been signed.