Ontario police oversight body faces test after Toronto corruption charges

Ontario’s inspector general is being asked to consider a systemic investigation after eight current and former Toronto police officers were charged in an organized crime probe; the inspector general says he is actively considering the request and will announce his decision publicly.

Ontario’s inspector general has been asked to consider opening a systemic investigation after eight current and former Toronto police officers were charged in a York Region police probe. Officials reported allegations including bribery, conspiracy to commit murder and drug trafficking, and said some officers are accused of leaking personal information to organized crime. The request for a civilian-led review came from Toronto’s police chief and the police board chair, and political voices have also called for independent examinations. The inspector general position was vested with its full powers in April 2024 and has recently begun issuing public decisions. What is known: - Eight current and former Toronto officers were charged in an organized crime and corruption investigation led by York Region police. - Officials reported allegations of bribery, conspiracy to commit murder, drug trafficking and the leaking of personal information to organized crime. - Toronto’s police chief and the police board chair formally asked the inspector general to investigate, and the Ontario Liberals called for a judicial inquiry. - Inspector General Ryan Teschner said he is actively considering the request and will announce his decision publicly; criminal proceedings are underway and could take years. Summary: If the inspector general opens a systemic investigation it would be a significant early use of the office’s full investigative powers and could address whether issues go beyond individual officers. The inspector general has acknowledged the seriousness of the matters raised and will make a public decision about launching an investigation. Undetermined at this time.