Constable who had been dealing with discreditable conduct charges remembered by family and friends for his ‘ambition, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to doing his finest’
A South Simcoe police officer charged with 9 counts of discreditable conduct can be being remembered as a “devoted husband, loving father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and a friend to many.”
In an obituary posted to the Peaceable Transition funeral residence web site, household paid tribute to Const. Paul Catling, who they are saying died abruptly on Dec. 11 on the age of 47.
“His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew him,” the obituary reads. “Paul … was raised in a family that instilled in him the values of kindness, hard work, and empathy. He carried these values throughout his life, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met.”
Catling “wore many hats” professionally, working additionally as a golf course superintendent, mortgage dealer and landlord.
“Regardless of the role, he was known for his ambition, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to doing his best,” the obituary says. “His colleagues and clients admired his dedication and integrity, and he always found ways to make those around him feel valued.”
Nevertheless, it’s as a constable that Catling gained broad notoriety.
He was dealing with a tribunal stemming from charges laid below the Police Providers Act.
South Simcoe police acquired a criticism on Oct. 27, 2023 from the Workplace of the Unbiased Police Evaluation Director “that involved an interaction with a female that constituted a sexual assault allegation,” the division stated in a information launch earlier this fall.
South Simcoe police then contacted the province’s Particular Investigations Unit (SIU), which invoked its mandate.
The constable, a 15-year veteran of South Simcoe police, was initially assigned to administrative duties, however then went on depart.
The SIU accomplished its investigation and decided it was unable to put felony charges. Nevertheless, “through investigation of the initial complaint and further information that was revealed, it was determined that a Police Services Act investigation was warranted,” South Simcoe police stated.
South Simcoe police requested the Barrie Police Service to analyze the matter. It determined 9 counts of discreditable conduct “were substantiated involving two complainants.”
Catling made three appearances on the tribunal — the primary was held just about on Oct. 25, however the matter was put over at the moment to a teleconference on Nov. 26. There, it was revealed the police affiliation nonetheless had not assigned authorized counsel to Catling. Consequently, the matter was put over to Dec. 12, however that teleconference was cancelled on the final minute “due to unforeseen circumstances.”
However Catling was additionally enthusiastic about staying lively and “living life to the fullest,” in response to the obituary, attending sporting occasions, having fun with concert events, travelling together with his spouse and taking part in pranks.
“I’m sorry for your loss, especially these hard times in life,” wrote Pam Summers on the obituary web page. “You (will) be deeply missed by many people.”
Others had related messages.
“My deepest condolences for the loss of Paul,” stated Ted Costanzo. “You are in my thoughts. Hopefully the memory of his life will ease the pain that your family is going through at this time.”
Todd Smith stated the household has his “unending support.”
“Our entire family sends you all our love and compassion,” he wrote. “We know what a fabulous, kind, hard-working person Paul was.”
The reason for Catling’s loss of life has not been confirmed to Village Media.
He’s survived by his spouse, two daughters, mother and father and brother.
“Paul’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him,” stated the obituary. “He was, and always will be, deeply loved.”
A memorial service was held over the weekend on the Barrie Nation Membership.
The household is requesting donations be made to the Canadian Psychological Well being Affiliation at cmhastarttalking.ca.
