Deputy Chief of Durham Police, Chris Kirkpatrick, has voluntarily admitted to unlawfully speeding.
Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) has shared his message in its ongoing commitment to transparency.
Deputy Chief Kirkpatrick’s formally joining the DRPS was announced in May this year (see below). The incident he referred to happened about a month later.
“On June 5th and 6th, I operated my police issued vehicle in a manner that would undermine public trust in policing; speeding without lawful excuse. While I may not have been ticketed, I immediately reported what transpired to the Chief of Police, who in turn reported it to the Durham Region Police Service Board (DRPSB),” said the message.
A misconduct investigation was referred by the DRPSB to the Peel Regional Police Service. “Just two days ago that investigative process concluded and I accepted the board’s decision and full responsibility for my actions. I received a substantial penalty commensurate with my rank, forfeiting 94 hours,: said the statement.
“As all police officers are entitled to when facing a misconduct investigation, I respected due process. Chair Shaun Collier was quoted in the media in August that ‘all members of the DRPS are expected to be exemplary in their behaviour, and this is especially true of the leaders of the organization’. He is correct, and senior leaders are held to a higher standard. I fell below the standard I set for myself, and have accepted responsibility,” said Deputy Chief Kirkpatrick.
“While I deeply regret my actions, I hope this serves as a reminder to the DRPS that as leaders we are in fact held to a higher standard, are held accountable, and is a step towards the priority of building trust. While members are not expected to comment publicly on their discipline matters, as Deputy Chief I felt it important to be transparent with each of you and maintain respect for the leadership of this organization,” he added.