Ontario Civilian Police Commission Withdraws Misconduct Charge Against Durham Police Deputy Chief
The Durham Regional Police Service Board has issued a statement regarding the OCPC withdrawing a charge of deceit against the Deputy Chief.
Below is the comment from the Board.
“Ontario Civilian Police Commission Withdraws Misconduct Charge Against Deputy Chief Bertrim
On June 10, 2024, the Ontario Civilian Police Commission withdrew 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The Board is pleased that the misconduct charge against Deputy Chief Bertrim has been withdrawn.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. 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. While the Board 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 Durham Regional Police Service Board is the civilian governing body of the Police Service. It responsibilities include establishing objectives for policing in consultation with the Chief of the Police, setting policies for the effective management of the Police Service, and hiring and monitoring the performance of the Chief of Police. The Board consists of seven members, three appointed by the Province of Ontario and four chosen by Regional Council.”
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