Policing advocates are calling for a halt to the hush-hush attitude and stigma surrounding suicide after three officers—including two in southern Ontario—died in a single week in what they say were line-of-duty deaths.
Officers with the Hamilton Police Service, the Durham Regional Police Service, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Alberta died suddenly on Aug. 11, Aug. 12, and Aug. 13, respectively. None of the officers have been officially identified.
Advocates Push for Workplace Culture Shifts and Resource Access
“You can never fully prepare someone for some of the things that members are exposed to,” remarked Mark Baxter, who leads the Police Association of Ontario as its president, an umbrella group that speaks on behalf of more than 33,000 members. Baxter emphasized the need for open conversations, letting personnel know resources exist, and encouraging active use.
According to Baxter, individual services hold the responsibility of creating environments where members feel comfortable seeking assistance. Workplace culture varies across police services, resulting in differing degrees of comfort for members coming forward depending on where they work. The Police Association of Ontario works with organizations like Canada Beyond the Blue to educate police chiefs, leaders, and officers about existing resources and to ensure those supports should come without barriers.
Did You Know? The Police Association of Ontario represents an umbrella organization representing more than 33,000 members.
Overcoming Systemic Barriers and Evolving Support Systems
Historically, few wellness professionals possessed specific training to handle the volume of traumatic events witnessed by police officers compared to the general public, leaving them ill-equipped to help, advocates note. Dilnaz Garda, president of Canada Beyond the Blue, experienced these gaps firsthand following the 2016 death of her brother, Toronto police Const. Darius Garda, after he did not receive the mental health care he needed.
“Having advocated for him, that’s the only way I understood that there were so many barriers in the system, and that they were asking those who are unwell to navigate that system,” Garda said. While healthcare barriers such as waitlists and costs persist, Garda notes that many therapists are now trained in the culture of first responders.
Official Responses and Administrative Challenges
Police services across jurisdictions have acknowledged the recent deaths through official social media posts and public statements. The Durham Regional Police Service paid tribute online to a “valued member of our DRPS family,” while the Hamilton police force stated their officer served the community and stood alongside his colleagues with commitment and professionalism. The Alberta RCMP declined to comment on the manner of death for their officer, but issued a statement encouraging employees to speak openly and seek support.
Despite these acknowledgments, substantial room for improvement remains. Baxter noted that some services automatically appeal all Workplace Safety and Insurance Board claims, potentially as a way of managing the influx of requested leaves, which sends a negative message to officers needing help. On the other hand, staff members can see positive impacts from automated workflows, including programs that track whenever personnel respond to potentially distressing calls and trigger alerts indicating a mental health check might be appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What police services experienced sudden officer deaths in August?
Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Alberta, along with the Durham Regional Police Service and the Hamilton Police Service, passed away unexpectedly on Aug. 13, Aug. 12, and Aug. 11, respectively.
What is Equipt Care?
Equipt Care is a confidential, police-informed, 24/7 mental health and wellness program accessible by calling 1-866-7EQUIPT (1-866-737-8478) or visiting equiptcare.ca.
What immediate crisis resources are available for individuals seeking support?
The 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 9-8-8, and in Toronto, the Toronto Community Crisis Service (TCCS) is available by calling 211.
How can police services better balance administrative burdens and mental health support for officers facing traumatic calls?