The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) in southern Ontario has been characterized as a toxic workplace where issues of harassment were not adequately addressed and management reportedly resisted officers seeking mental health support, according to recently disclosed records.
The Ontario Civilian Police Commission’s (OCPC) report delves into the workplace culture, policies, and procedures of the DRPS and its board. The findings by investigators confirm that a “poisoned work environment” existed at the DRPS. Despite having “sound” policies in place, workplace harassment investigations were tainted by bias and poor record-keeping practices.
Peter Brauti, a lawyer representing current and former DRPS members whose complaints initiated the investigation, expressed disappointment over the heavily redacted report lacking in detail. He emphasized the detrimental impact on individuals within the organization whose lives were allegedly ruined by those not being held accountable.
The DRPS, headquartered in Whitby and serving multiple municipalities in Durham Region, faced serious allegations raised by Brauti in a letter to the deputy minister of community safety and correctional services in November 2018. These allegations included claims of “favouritism, cronyism, reprisals, and criminal activity at the highest levels” within the DRPS.
Following the commencement of the OCPC investigation in May 2019 and the subsequent interviews of approximately 80 witnesses, the report was completed in July. Despite efforts to obtain the report, it remained confidential as the OCPC disbanded in line with new provincial policing regulations.
The report and a summarized version highlight various concerning aspects of the DRPS workplace, including inadequate scrutiny of senior officer hiring by the board, lack of independence in workplace harassment investigations, dismissive attitudes towards mental health concerns, and the perceived influence of favoritism and cronyism on DRPS operations.
Moreover, the report accuses the DRPS and the board of hindering the OCPC’s investigation by non-cooperation and legal disputes, resulting in significant costs to taxpayers. It also brings attention to the resistance towards granting prompt access to documentation and opposing applications for presumptive PTSD support for first responders.
Despite facing redactions, the report reveals instances of serious misconduct within the DRPS, such as failure to report sexual assault incidents to the Special Investigations Unit (SIU). The report underscores the need for transparency, accountability, and reform within the DRPS to address the systemic issues identified.
The report concludes with a list of 33 recommendations, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe environment for reporting misconduct, ensuring integrity in promotions, and enhancing investigative procedures. The release of the report to a broader audience remains uncertain, with efforts ongoing to obtain an uncensored version for further scrutiny and action.
