Board chair says “multiple people” have come forward

Heather Wright/The Independent

The chair of Sarnia’s Police Services Board says “multiple people” have come forward in the workplace harassment investigation. That’s has led to more suspensions of the department’s top administrators.

The board released a statement announcing Deputy Chief Ron Hansen and an unnamed civilian employee had been suspended Monday morning.

“The board must emphasise that suspensions are not findings of misconduct. Nevertheless, the board has taken this step to ensure the integrity of the investigative process, as well as to maintain public confidence while the matter is being reviewed,” said the statement issued by Chair Kelly Ash.

The workplace harassment investigation began with Chief Derek Davis. He was suspended May 19 after the board said a complaint had been filed.

Eight days later, after the board reviewed the chief’s contract, Ash said the board would not be paying Davis’ legal fees in a civil suit he filed against The Sarnia Journal and its owner after several articles and columns critical of the department.

At that time Ash also announce the board had hired Marshall Workplace Law out of Toronto to investigate the workplace harassment complaint against Davis.

Monday, the board announced two more suspensions with pay as the investigation continues. Ash tells The Independent, Marshall Workplace Law is now talking with police services members for its investigation.

It’s not clear how many complaints have been filed by members of the department.

“It’s kind of one big complaint, like how many different people have come forward. I can’t tell you, I don’t know yet, but there’s, multiple, but this most recent one is a result of information that has come forward during this investigation,” Ash told The Independent.

“The board is aware that members of the community naturally have questions regarding these developments,” says the board in a statement Monday. “However, in order to protect the integrity of the investigation and respect the rights of all individuals involved, the board will not be providing further details at this time.

“The board remains committed to transparency, and accountability. The board also must ensure that all workplace matters are addressed thoroughly and impartially.”

Interim Chief Mike Federico will take over the day-to-day leadership and administration of the Sarnia Police Service June 15.