A Peterborough Police Service officer was arrested in a neighbouring jurisdiction in connection with an intimate partner violence incident.
The officer has been charged with mischief under $5,000. Following the arrest on Monday, the individual was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court in that jurisdiction at a later date.
Pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings, the officer has been reassigned to administrative duties. A professional standards misconduct investigation will also be conducted as per the Community Safety and Policing Act, but only after the conclusion of the criminal case.
Police Chief Stuart Betts acknowledged the potential impact on public trust when criminal charges are laid against an officer, even when the alleged offence is unrelated to their professional duties.
“I understand that we, the police, must earn the public’s trust and confidence each and every day,” Betts said. “Although this matter is in no way related to the officer’s duties, any time criminal charges are laid, it may affect that trust. We are committed to ensuring transparency and accountability.”
In accordance with privacy procedures, the name of the accused will not be released, as is standard in intimate partner violence cases unless public safety concerns arise.
Police officials said no further comment will be made at this time.
Over the weekend, other charges were brought against a Peterborough Police officer as part of a separate investigation by the OPP.
As part of that probe, 27-year-old Mackenzie Rogers, was charged with two counts of Breach of trust, contrary to section 122 of the Criminal Code, and Possession of property obtained by crime – over $5000, contrary to section 354(1) of the Criminal Code.
