‘Our relationship with the community is built on trust, which is essential to effective policing,’ says Chief Rich Johnston
The Barrie Police Service is backing the province’s examination of police integrity and anti-corruption measures, following the recent charges against several officers in Toronto.
Ontario’s inspector general of policing has declared an independent inspection of police services and boards across the province after a shocking corruption investigation led to multiple charges against Toronto police officers last week.
This announcement follows York Regional Police’s release of findings from an organized crime and corruption probe called Project South.
Seven currently active Toronto police officers, along with one retired officer residing in Barrie, were allegedly involved in various crimes such as conspiracy to commit murder, shootings, extortion, drug trafficking, and other offenses.
Since last week, two more members from the Toronto police have been suspended but have not yet faced formal charges.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Barrie police emphasized their commitment to “maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency, and to ensure the safety and trust of the communities we serve, is paramount.”
“Our relationship with the community is built on trust, which is essential to effective policing,” Barrie Police Chief Rich Johnston said in the statement.
“Activities that seek to strengthen police legitimacy through police accountability are welcomed by the Barrie Police Service,” the chief added. “This inspection offers a valuable chance for us to showcase our commitment to ethical policing and continuous improvement. Our priority is to serve with honesty and professionalism, and ensuring our community feels safe, respected, and confident in the police service.”
The Barrie Police Service welcomes any recommendations from this provincewide review that could further enhance its operations.
The inspection will take place under Ontario’s Community Safety and Policing Act.
Alongside Barrie Police Service, all other law enforcement agencies in Ontario will be part of this investigation including Toronto Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police, Peel Regional Police, York Regional Police and Durham Regional Police Service.
Source link
Source link
