Ontario Member of Parliament (MPP) from Ajax Rob Cerjanec, is calling on the Ontario government to immediately release the findings and recommendations of the Ontario Civilian Police Commission’s 2019 investigation into the Durham Regional Police Service.
Last summer, the Ontario Civilian Police Commission withdrew charges against a Deputy DRPS Chief, following which the latter resigned from the force (see below).
MPP Cerjanec said the multi-year, publicly funded investigation examined allegations of misconduct, harassment, and abuse of power within the DRPS.
“Despite its importance, the results have never been disclosed,” said the MPP warning that withholding the report undermines transparency, weakens public confidence in civilian oversight, and risks eroding trust in policing.
“Residents deserve to know what this investigation revealed and to have confidence that its recommendations are being acted upon,” said Cerjanec.
Publicly-funded Investigation
“This investigation was extensive, publicly funded, and spanned several years. Similar investigations into other police services have been released and there has been no reason given why this should be any different.”
Durham Regional Council recently passed a motion calling for the release of the findings, and the Chair of the Durham Police Services Board has stated that it continues to encourage public reporting on this matter, said Cerjanec adding that the province must now act without delay.
“This issue is about restoring trust in our institutions. Transparency is not optional. The people of Durham Region, and Ontarians deserve nothing less.”