Former Toronto Mayor John Sewell has expressed grave concerns regarding the recent arrests of several Toronto police officers involved in a corruption and organized crime investigation. He referred to the incidents as a serious "management problem," implicating Chief Myron Demkiw and emphasizing that the situation should have never escalated to this level.
In an interview with CityNews, Sewell described the arrests as "shocking," noting that while the presence of one or two rogue officers can be understood, the alleged coordination among multiple officers in criminal activities is indicative of a systemic failure. Sewell criticized Chief Demkiw's leadership, arguing that he has not demonstrated a commitment to effectively address misconduct within the police force.
Sewell pointed to a notable previous case as an example of mismanagement within the Toronto Police Service. He referenced the trial concerning the death of undercover officer Jeffrey Northrup, who was killed in an underground parking lot on July 2, 2021. The accused, Umar Zameer, was ultimately found not guilty of first-degree murder, and the judge in the case suggested that three officer witnesses may have colluded in their testimonies. This claim raised significant questions about the integrity of the police force.
Following the trial, Chief Demkiw requested an independent review by the Ontario Provincial Police in light of the judge's adverse comments regarding the officers' testimonies. Furthermore, he ordered a comprehensive internal review of plainclothes policing. However, Sewell claims that this response did not adequately address systemic issues, resulting in a more pronounced embarrassment for the police service.
Sewell expressed frustration that the media had not yet received any report from Demkiw on the conclusions of the reviews that followed the Northrup case, stating that the lack of accountability for wrongdoing among officers is troubling. He also criticized the Toronto Police Service Board, asserting that they have failed to hold the Chief accountable, which has hindered police reform efforts. He noted, "I wish the police board was a strong one that could say ‘hey chief this is way out of control,’” but remarked that they have historically supported the Chief's every suggestion.
On the same day the arrests were announced, the Toronto Police Service Board released a statement acknowledging the gravity of the allegations. They indicated that both the Board and Chief Demkiw have formally requested an independent inspection by the Inspector General of Policing to assess the situation and enhance public accountability and safety.
Amid these developments, Sewell pointed out that the Toronto Police Service has significant work ahead to rebuild dwindling public trust. A study conducted last year revealed that the populace in Toronto does not trust the police, further complicating their situation. Sewell highlighted the alarming reality that seven officers allegedly collaborated in actions detrimental to public safety, questioning how their superiors failed to recognize these issues.
During the press conference held alongside York Regional Police officials, Chief Demkiw characterized the allegations against the officers as "painful and unsettling." He reassured the public that the arrests do not reflect the Toronto Police Service's values and stated, “The seven members have been arrested [and] have been suspended, and where appropriate, I will be seeking suspension without pay." He further emphasized that these individuals do not represent the integrity of the police force, reiterating his commitment to addressing the situation and restoring public confidence.
