Durham Police Deputy Chief Suspended Following Alleged Racially Inappropriate Remarks
A deputy chief with the Durham Regional Police Service has been placed on suspension following allegations that they uttered a racially inappropriate term during an internal meeting. The incident reportedly occurred earlier this week during a gathering of the DRPS Afro-Caribbean Canadian Internal Support Network, which included both sworn officers and civilian staff members.
Independent Investigation Launched
In a statement released to media outlets on Thursday evening, DRPS Chief Peter Moreira confirmed that the alleged misconduct will be investigated by an independent third party. The police services board emphasized its commitment to ensuring accountability and demonstrating unwavering dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion principles within the force.
The statement read: "This alleged misconduct will be investigated by an independent third party with the firm objective of ensuring accountability and demonstrating the Board's unwavering commitment to the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion."
Chief Moreira and the police board further expressed their dedication to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and conduct to earn community trust and confidence.
Suspension Details and Command Team Changes
The deputy chief in question has been suspended with pay pursuant to provisions of the Community Safety and Policing Act while the investigation proceeds. Although official statements have not named the specific officer involved, Durham Regional Police Service lists only two deputy chiefs: Kim Yeandle and Chris Kirkpatrick.
Notably, the DRPS command team webpage was deleted on Friday morning, according to online website archives. When contacted by media, emails to Deputy Chief Kirkpatrick returned an automated out-of-office response, though no official confirmation has been provided regarding which deputy chief is involved in the suspension.
Apology and Corrective Measures
According to reports from CBC News, which viewed a copy of Chief Moreira's statement, the deputy chief involved has "expressed sincere regret" and "acknowledges the harm" caused by their remarks. Chief Moreira indicated that steps have been taken for the deputy chief to apologize and begin meaningful reflection and corrective action.
The police chief has also communicated with the Afro-Caribbean Canadian Internal Support Network regarding the incident, demonstrating efforts to address concerns directly with the affected community within the police service.
Historical Context of DRPS Controversies
This incident marks another chapter in Durham Regional Police Service's history of internal controversies. A previous investigation by the now-dissolved Ontario Civilian Police Commission upheld allegations of a toxic and "poisoned" work environment at DRPS, according to heavily-redacted documents released during the summer.
That investigation, launched in 2019 following complaints from DRPS members, addressed allegations of workplace harassment, misconduct, and favoritism "at the highest levels" of the police service. Employees reported being humiliated and ostracized for raising management concerns, interference in professional standards investigations, and efforts to downplay or ignore complaints related to work-related PTSD and workplace sexual assaults.
The police services board has convened to consider the current matter as expeditiously as possible and exercise its responsibilities under relevant legislation. The Toronto Sun reached out to both Durham Regional Police and the DRPS Police Association for additional comment on the suspension and investigation.
