Ontario’s inspector general of policing will conduct a provincewide independent review of all 45 police services and their boards, including the Ontario Provincial Police, following a corruption scandal involving seven Toronto Police Service (TPS) officers and one former officer.
Investigation Launched Amidst Public Concern
Ryan Teschner stated that incidents of corruption “understandably shake public trust” and a thorough investigation is necessary to address public questions. He emphasized the critical nature of public trust in policing, noting that people often turn to officers “at moments of crisis, when they are frightened, injured, grieving or in immediate danger.”
The inspector general’s review will examine five key areas: officer supervision and its effectiveness, officer screening and vetting processes, access to police databases and information systems, evidence and property management, and substance abuse and fitness for duty.
Teschner, who previously served as the executive director and chief of staff of the Toronto police board, will appoint an external investigator to lead the review “as a safeguard.” This external investigator will have the same authority as Teschner to gather information and must possess the necessary expertise and time to dedicate to the task.
The findings of the review will be made public online. Teschner affirmed his commitment to addressing the issues “swiftly” and “properly,” acknowledging that “the public is watching.”
Toronto police Chief Myron Demkiw and Shelley Carroll, chair of the Toronto Police Service Board, are scheduled to hold a news conference at 1:30 p.m. Monday.
Toronto Police Scandal at the Root of Inquiry
The investigation stems from a months-long inquiry by York Region police, which led to the arrest of seven TPS officers. The officers are accused of involvement in serious criminal activity, including conspiracy to commit murder, shootings, extortion, robbery, and drug trafficking. Nineteen civilians have too been charged. Peel police has also suspended three of its own officers in connection with the case, though no charges have been filed against them.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow released a statement supporting the independent review, stating she wants answers regarding how corruption occurred and what systemic changes are needed to prevent future incidents. The Ontario Association of Police Service Boards and the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police jointly welcomed the review, emphasizing that corruption is “a direct attack on public confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted this provincewide review?
The review was prompted by a corruption scandal involving seven Toronto Police Service officers and one former officer, as investigated by York Region police.
What areas will the review focus on?
The review will focus on officer supervision, screening and vetting of officers, access to police databases, evidence and property management, and substance abuse and fitness for duty.
Will the findings of the review be public?
Yes, the findings of the review will be made public online, according to Ryan Teschner.
As the investigation unfolds, what steps will be taken to ensure accountability and rebuild public trust in policing across Ontario?
