(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
The Executive Director of IHARC (Integrated Homelessness & Addictions Response Centre has released a statement following criminal charges by Cobourg Police.
Cobourg Police issued a press release on Thursday, May 28, 2026 stating that Executive Director of IHARC, Jordan Stevenson (age 28) has been charged with
· Unlawfully in a dwelling house contrary to section 349(1) of the Criminal Code
· Personating a Peace Officer contrary to section 130(1)(a) of the Criminal Code.
The allegations state that in mid-May 2026, the Cobourg Police Service Criminal Investigation Bureau opened an investigation after learning that a man, presenting as a first responder, had attended and entered a private residence without the homeowner’s permission while an individual inside was in medical distress. The man allegedly provided medical assistance without consent before leaving the residence when paramedics arrived on scene. It is believed the individual became aware of the emergency by monitoring first responder radio communications.
Stevenson released a statement shortly after a release was issued by police.
Stevenson said:
“Effective immediately, all IHARC services are temporarily suspended until further notice.
This follows a serious incident involving Cobourg Police, during which essential IHARC equipment was seized, including phones, laptops, tablets, and body cameras.
The situation began during a medical emergency in Cobourg. I became aware of a nearby emergency involving a person reportedly without vital signs and attended to help until emergency services arrived.
At all times, I identified myself as an outreach worker.
IHARC is not a police service. IHARC is not security. IHARC does not enforce laws, investigate people, compel people, or represent itself as law enforcement.
Our public materials, our outreach model, and our day-to-day work have always been clear on this point.
IHARC exists because people in crisis often need practical, non-police support. That distinction matters deeply to the people we serve.
Because this matter is now before the legal system, I have been advised to limit public comment. Legal counsel is involved, and IHARC will respond through the proper process.
The immediate impact is significant.
The seizure of IHARC’s operational equipment has directly affected our ability to respond to people who rely on us, including people experiencing homelessness, addiction, crisis, isolation, and system failure.
We know this suspension will affect people who already have very few places to turn. That is not something we take lightly.
We will provide further updates as soon as we are able to do so responsibly.
For now, IHARC services are suspended until further notice.
Cobourg Police – Port Hope Man Facing Charges After Impersonating a First Responder (Name Released)
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
