The Owen Sound Police Service Board supports the recent announcement by Ontario’s Inspector General of Policing for an independent review of integrity and anti-corruption practices across Ontario’s police sector. 

The board shares in the dismay of Ontarians following the results of the Project South investigation.  The issues being examined elsewhere are serious and understandably raise public concern.  When organized crime infiltrates policing, the harm extends far beyond the individuals involved and poses a serious risk to public confidence in policing itself.

Accountability and public trust are essential to policing and police governance. When the integrity of even a few police officers is questioned, it can adversely impact all officers and undermine public trust.  This inspection is about strengthening that confidence by identifying and addressing any gaps or weaknesses that allow corruption to take hold and looks to reinforce the entire policing system.  Independent oversight is an essential part of maintaining public confidence in policing.  Oversight bodies exist to independently examine serious matters when they arise.  It is also important to recognize that, in this case, the system worked. Criminal allegations were independently investigated. These early steps demonstrate accountability in action.

We believe that the Inspector General of Policing’s findings, once completed, may provide valuable insights that could support continuous improvement in police governance practices. These insights could assist police service boards and leaders in ensuring their organizations and members meet Ontarians’ expectations for integrity, accountability, and effectiveness. Police service boards and police leaders across Ontario are united in their commitment to working collaboratively with oversight bodies.

In strengthening the system, we are also supporting the men and women of the Owen Sound Police Service who serve with integrity every day to keep communities safe. This work is for them as much as it is for the public.

Our local police service members and staff continue to serve the community with professionalism and integrity.  We are also mindful that heightened attention can place added strain on police personnel who are not connected to these events. 

Finally — to every police service member who continues to uphold their oath, who demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and courage, who literally runs toward danger so others can run away — thank you. Your service is the foundation of public trust. This work is also being done for you. 

John Thomson – Chair, Owen Sound Police Service Board