Statement from Cobourg Police Chief Regarding Story in Today’s Northumberland

In Local, Police Blotter

Statement from Chief Paul VandeGraaf

Re: Response to an article published in Today’s Northumberland.

I am dismayed that Today’s Northumberland made the decision to publish an article, referencing an anonymous letter with unverified allegations and gross generalizations about the Cobourg Police Service.

This was irresponsible and done knowing the damage it would cause, including unnecessary stress and hardship on the police service members, the very people who get up every day, ready to serve the community with professionalism, compassion, and dedication. We welcome an independent and thorough review of the anonymous and unverified allegations.

Public trust, transparency, and accountability are at the core of the police service. If these allegations were brought to our attention, we would ensure that the matter was fully and thoroughly investigated through the Inspector General’s Office. I spoke with the Cobourg Police Association, and members of the Cobourg Police Service Board, and we intend to deliberate our next steps. As the published article
references allegations of misconduct, we will not make any further statements.

I can assure the community that I stand behind my words that trust, transparency, and accountability are our priorities.

Quote from Rich Ferguson, President of the Cobourg Police Association
“As President of the Cobourg Police Association, I am deeply disappointed by the recent article published by Today’s Northumberland. The allegations presented are not only unverified but also cast a shadow over the hard work and dedication of our members.

The Association is proud of its open, positive, and collaborative relationship with Chief VandeGraaf.

Our priority remains the well-being of our members and the trust of the community we serve. We thank the community for supporting our members, sworn and civilian, as they continue to perform their duties under these challenging circumstances.”

Pete Fisher
Author: Pete Fisher

Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love

Join Our Newsletter!

Want to keep up to date on news and events in Northumberland? Subscribe to newsletter!

You may also read!

Video – After Five Days People and Businesses Still Without Power in Northumberland County

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4wsN8QQlKw Going into the sixth day without power, frustration is starting to settle in, but for the most part people

Read More...

Ganaraska Art & Framing Presents “People Watching” – Solo Exhibition Celebrates Under-recognized Canadian Artist’s

Rediscovering Deborah Uman-Sures: Ganaraska Art & Framing is thrilled to announce the new solo exhibition People Watching by Deborah

Read More...

Philatelists React to US Tariffs

By Cecilia Nasmith/Today's Northumberland To the growing list of groups urging members to Buy Canadian, add Ontario's philatelic community. The Cobourg

Read More...

Mobile Sliding Menu