The Ontario Civilian Police Commission has withdrawn the charge of deceit against Deputy Chief Bertrim, which had been laid in February 2023, citing that there would be no reasonable prospect of conviction.
The announcement was made by Durham Regional Police Service Board (DRPSB) yesterday, June 10.
“The board is pleased that the misconduct charge against Deputy Chief Bertrim has been withdrawn. An allegation of misconduct and a public hearing process against a Deputy Chief of Police is a significant issue to the police service and the board, as it raises questions in the community about the integrity of police leadership,” said a board statement.
“In light of the importance of community trust and confidence in the police, the board expected that a careful review of the evidence would have taken place before a charge of this nature was initiated,” it said.
While the board said it is satisfied with this outcome, it is disappointed with the commission’s decision to proceed with a charge without sufficient evidence and the timing of the action taken. “This process negatively affected the reputation of the DRPS and its leadership, to say nothing of the monumental impact this had on the Deputy Chief personally, and professionally.”
The DRPS is continuing to move forward with a renewed purpose to deliver modern, effective police services that earn the trust of the community, the board added.
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