Breaking News – Results of Anonymous Complaint Investigation to Cobourg Police Remain Secret
The only item on the agenda at a brief Cobourg Police Services Board meeting was summarization of the contents of an anonymous letter sent to Today’s Northumberland and given to the Cobourg Police Service.
During the meeting on March 5, 2025, which lasted 10-minutes Cobourg Police Chief Paul VandeGraaf stated at a meeting on December 17, 2024 the Board, at the request of their legal opinion requested a reported from the Chief about the contents and concerns of the letter.
VandeGraaf noted the matter has been “thoroughly reviewed” with reports provided to the Board.
“As such, in every other human related report, or investigation, all available information is provided in a closed session to the Board.”
“Nothing further will be shared publicly by the police service at this time.”
Adam Bureau who is Chair of the Police Services Board made a statement before the meeting was adjourned.
“I stand before you today as Chair of the Cobourg Police Service Board, alongside Vice Chair Graham, Member Kerr, Member Pepper, and Member Beatty (who was absent).
Together, we serve as committed advocates for progress, transparency, and public trust in the Cobourg Police Service. Your presence at this Special Meeting reinforces our shared commitment to open, accountable, and responsible governance.
Today, we find ourselves at a critical juncture—a moment that speaks to the responsibilities we hold as a Board and as stewards of public safety. It is a moment that demands clarity, honesty, and courage.
Earlier today, during a closed session, the Board reviewed the final report concerning an anonymous letter we received in November 2024. This letter made serious allegations challenging the integrity of the Cobourg Police Service and demanded immediate action from the Board. In response, we proceeded with the care, attention, and due diligence that such allegations warrant. The final report, supported by source documentation, provides a comprehensive examination of the inferred allegations contained within that letter.
On November 4th, 2024, upon receipt of the anonymous complaint, the Board acted decisively. We convened a Special Meeting without delay, unified in our purpose and responsibility to the community we serve. Understanding the significance of the allegations, we immediately referred the matter to the Inspectorate of Policing, seeking an independent, impartial review.
However, despite our earnest efforts, the statutory limitations of Section 107 of the Community Safety and Policing Act became clear: for the Inspector General to proceed with an investigation, there must be an identifiable complainant. In this case, no such individual came forward.
But we did not stop there. Determined to exhaust every possible avenue, we sought legal counsel to guide our next steps. On December 18th, 2024, based on expert advice, we directed the Chief of Police to commission an independent and thorough internal review. In parallel, we explored the possibility of an external investigation through another police service. Unfortunately, this was declined due to the anonymous nature of the allegations, which prevented any further formal inquiry.
This experience has highlighted a critical challenge: while anonymous complaints can sometimes bring forward legitimate concerns, they also limit our ability to conduct fair, thorough, and conclusive investigations. Without identifiable sources, it becomes nearly impossible to substantiate claims, gather necessary evidence, and ensure due process for all parties involved.
As a result, and in the interest of maintaining the highest standards of accountability and fairness, the Board has adopted a clear policy moving forward: we will no longer accept or act upon anonymous complaints. This decision is not made lightly. It reflects our unwavering commitment to transparency, to the integrity of our processes, and to ensuring that every concern brought before us can be addressed properly, thoroughly, and justly.
We believe that transparency begins with open dialogue. It requires accountability from all involved, including those who raise concerns. When individuals are willing to come forward and stand behind their allegations, we are better equipped to take meaningful action, safeguard fairness, and protect the rights of everyone involved.
Throughout this process, the Board has acted with diligence, care, and respect for the seriousness of our role. We have consulted with legal experts, carefully considered every option available to us, and approached this matter with the professionalism and responsibility our community expects and deserves.
Our support for the Chief of Police and the dedicated members of the Cobourg Police Service remains strong. We are united in our vision of a police service that upholds the highest standards of integrity, service, and respect. We trust in their ability to protect and serve our community while embodying the principles of justice and fairness.
As a Board, we remain committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement, mutual respect, and open communication. Transparency is not just a guiding principle—it is the foundation of our work. We will continue to provide regular updates, welcome community input, and ensure that our governance remains open, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the people we serve.
On behalf of the Board, thank you for your ongoing trust, your support, and your belief in the importance of good governance. Together, we will continue to build a community founded on safety, respect, and shared accountability.”
(Editor’s Note: Today’s Northumberland received a third letter that has was unsigned a few days ago. The author of the letter states they are a different person from the previous letters. Today’s Northumberland will not be sharing the contents of the letter as there is no specific allegations and nothing we could look into. The author of the letter did state, “I acknowledge that the anonymity of this letter may raise doubts about the credibility of the allegations. However, rest assured, these are not baseless accusations, but truths that remain concealed due to fear of retaliation. We, the authors of such letters, remain anonymous not out of deception, but to safeguard our careers.”)
Update – Cobourg Police Service Board Update on Anonymous Complaint
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