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Oak Bay officer retired during investigation into using sex trade services

‘This individual will never be a police officer again,’ says chief
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Oak Bay’s lead cop confirms that on Dec. 7, 2016 the police department received information one of its officers may have used the services of a sex trade worker.

“To ensure independent oversight and accountability, the OPCC was contacted immediately and requested to order an investigation under the Police Act. An external investigator was also requested. The OPCC supported these requests. A criminal investigation was also conducted,” said Chief Constable Andy Brinton in a written statement responding to the police complaint commissioner report, released Tuesday.

That report gives insight into serious substantiated allegations of misconduct against police officers in Greater Victoria – ranging from using the services of sex trade workers, to corruption and deceit.

RELATED: Oak Bay police officer fired after hiring sex trade worker

The report shows Oak Bay had two substantiated allegations against officers, both cases being investigations ordered by the Oak Bay Police Department. The first involved a police officer, either on or off-duty, who was alleged to have used the services of a sex trade worker.

“Prior to the conclusion of the investigations the police officer retired. The Police Act jurisdiction over police officers remains post-employment, and a thorough investigation continued,” Brinton said.

On Nov. 15, 2017 the Discipline Authority reviewed the completed investigation report and found the police officer had committed misconduct, specifically Discreditable Conduct under the Police Act. The sanction was dismissal.

RELATED: Report shows Saanich police officer retroactively fired over corruption, deceit, relationship with sex worker

The findings of the Discipline Authority was supported by the OPCC and will form a record of discipline.

“The behaviour of this police officer does not meet the expectations of the Oak Bay Police Department nor the community at large,” Brinton said. “The sanction supports the seriousness of this breach of the Police Act. This individual will never be a police officer again.”

Oak Bay police say there was insufficient evidence to support a criminal charge nor an indication the officer used the services of a sex trade worker while on duty.



c.vanreeuwyk@blackpress.ca

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Christine van Reeuwyk

About the Author: Christine van Reeuwyk

I'm dedicated to serving the community of Oak Bay as a senior journalist with the Greater Victoria news team.
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