Ontario’s solicitor general has expressed his intention to review the province’s policing legislation following Toronto’s police chief’s statement that officers facing charges abroad could only be suspended with pay. Michael Kerzner announced during a press briefing at Queen’s Park that he had discussed the matter with Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw and would take into account his call for a legislative review. Kerzner emphasized that all possibilities are being considered, stating, “He’s as frustrated as I am. When a person breaches the code of conduct, whether on or off duty, there must be repercussions.”
This development follows the suspension with pay of three Toronto police officers who were arrested in Spain earlier this month, triggering public outcry. According to Spanish authorities, two officers are accused of sexual assault, while the third is charged with assaulting a law enforcement officer. The incidents allegedly occurred in a taxi in Barcelona’s Ciutat Vella district involving a sex worker.
Chief Demkiw highlighted the limitations imposed by the Community Safety and Policing Act on suspending officers without pay, especially in cases occurring outside Canada, expressing his frustration with the lack of authority in such situations. He stressed the public’s expectation for police chiefs to take appropriate actions when necessary.
The option of suspending police officers without pay was only introduced in 2024 after a significant overhaul of Ontario’s policing laws. Mark Baxter, President of the Police Association of Ontario, explained that such suspensions require specific conditions under the Community Safety and Policing Act, emphasizing that they should be reserved for exceptional circumstances due to the presumption of innocence.
Additionally, Chief Demkiw addressed allegations that the officers in Spain had presented their Toronto police badges to authorities, stating that the badge and uniform should not be misused to conceal inappropriate behavior. He emphasized the importance of upholding the oath represented by the badge and uniform, promising accountability for any substantiated misconduct.
Moreover, recent concerns about Toronto police officers extend to arrests made in Project South, an ongoing investigation into police corruption and organized crime. Chief Demkiw mentioned ongoing reforms within the police force, including enhanced background checks for new recruits involving home visits and thorough investigations before employment offers are finalized.