A major corruption probe led by York Regional Police on Thursday resulted in the arrest of seven active Toronto police officers and one retired officer, all accused of assisting organized crime. The arrests signal a significant breach of public trust and raise serious questions about potential systemic issues within the Toronto Police Service.
Allegations Detail Extensive Criminal Activity
The charges against the officers are extensive, ranging from alleged involvement in drug trafficking and protecting illegal cannabis dispensaries to releasing confidential police information. Const. Timothy Barnhardt, 56, is considered central to the investigation, with Deputy Chief Ryan Hogan of York Regional Police calling him the “genesis” of the probe. Barnhardt faces 17 charges, including conspiracy to obstruct justice and numerous drug-related offences. He remains in custody, with his bail hearing adjourned.
Other officers facing charges include Sgt. Robert Black, accused of accepting bribes related to illegal cannabis dispensaries and cocaine trafficking; and retired Const. John Madeley Sr., facing 11 charges connected to an extortion investigation involving illegal gaming and betting. Madeley, who received the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 and the Police Exemplary Service Medal in 2021, was released from custody pending a February 20 court date.
Internal Review and Potential Consequences
Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw has stated he is seeking suspension without pay for at least four of the active officers involved. The Toronto Police Service has also requested an investigation from the province’s inspector general of policing, focusing on issues of supervision and access to information systems. This suggests a concern that vulnerabilities within the force may have contributed to the alleged misconduct.
Further charges have been laid against Sgt. Carl Grellette, Sgt. Saurabjit Bedi, Const. Derek McCormick, and Const. Elias Mouawad, alleging offences ranging from breach of trust to theft. Const. John Madeley Jr., son of the retired officer, also faces charges related to unlawful access and distribution of confidential information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific crimes are the officers accused of?
The officers face a range of charges including conspiracy to obstruct justice, conspiracy to commit public mischief, drug trafficking, breach of trust, theft, and unlawfully accessing and distributing confidential information, as detailed in the source.
What is the status of the officers who have been arrested?
At least one officer is currently in custody, while another has been released. CBC News is working to determine the status of the remaining officers.
What steps is the Toronto Police Service taking in response to these allegations?
Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw is seeking suspension without pay for at least four active members and has requested an investigation by the province’s inspector general of policing into supervision and access to information systems.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen what further details will emerge and what long-term impact these allegations will have on the Toronto Police Service and public trust.
