Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw has issued a strong call for corrupt officers within the force to step forward and resign on their own accord. In a radio interview on Wednesday, Demkiw stated that there is zero tolerance for corruption in the Toronto Police Service and that officers who engage in misconduct do not deserve to wear the uniform.
Chief Demkiw's Statement
Speaking to John Moore on Newstalk 1010, Demkiw emphasized the importance of integrity within the police force. He said, "Let's be clear: There is zero tolerance for corruption in the Toronto Police Service. We have stood up our police anti-corruption unit, we are expanding our abilities at professional standards, our members wear this uniform with honour and distinction and it's a privilege to wear this uniform."
Demkiw further added, "If you are a corrupt police officer, I would like you to quit. I would like you to not wear this uniform because you don't deserve to wear this uniform." He also warned that the police service will actively pursue those who do not come forward, stating, "Make no mistake about it. You better be looking over your shoulder because we're going to be coming after you."
Recent Scandals
The chief's comments come amid a series of scandals involving Toronto police officers. These include allegations of impaired driving, interference in a relative's impaired driving case, and providing exam answers based on race. Additionally, a senior officer retired after harassment allegations surfaced at a police conference. More serious accusations involve antisemitism within the ranks and the massive Operation South corruption case, which has led to criminal charges against eight current or retired officers.
Incident in Spain
Most recently, three off-duty Toronto police officers were charged in Barcelona, Spain, with the alleged sexual assault of a sex worker. The officers, Constables Evan Glennie, Rich Rand, and Caglar Yigit, were on vacation and not on official duty, according to police spokesperson Nadine Ramadan. They have been suspended without pay pending investigation. Ramadan stated, "Our members are deeply concerned by what's being alleged in this case. All three officers have returned to Canada and have been suspended in accordance with the Community Safety and Policing Act."
Criticism from Mayor and Police Board Chair
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and Police Services Board Chair Shelley Carroll have expressed criticism of Demkiw's leadership. Chow stated that Demkiw has "quite a bit of work to do to earn back the trust" of the public and must root out any officers who have allegedly committed wrongdoing. Carroll described the accusations as "troubling." Despite giving Demkiw a four-year contract extension last year, both officials have called for accountability.
Demkiw's Response
Demkiw defended his record, noting that the police service has taken swift and determined action to address the issues. He acknowledged that the actions of a few tarnish the reputation of the entire force but emphasized that the vast majority of officers serve with courage and integrity. "We are committed to dealing with the issues," he said. "These are a few small numbers that tarnish the service's reputation. There are so many people doing incredible work."
The chief also expressed hope that dirty cops will hand in their badges and guns, thereby avoiding the need for internal investigations and prosecutions. The allegations against the officers in Spain and other cases have not been tested in court, and the accused are entitled to a fair hearing.
