durham police deputy chief retires after using the n-word at meeting
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former durham region police service deputy chief chris kirkpatrick and the drps agreed to part ways on monday
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uttering a “racially inappropriate term” during a meeting has cost a durham police deputy chief his job.
the durham regional police services board (drpsb) announced on monday that it had agreed with chris kirkpatrick to conclude their employment relationship following a review of the investigation conducted by the law enforcement complaints agency (leca).
“deputy chief kirkpatrick will not be returning to the workplace and is retiring from the durham regional police service (drps),” the durham regional police services board said in a statement on monday. “the board has carefully reviewed the findings of the leca investigation, which concluded that deputy chief kirkpatrick’s actions constituted misconduct under the community safety and policing act.”
leca is an independent civilian agency that handles public complaints regarding police conduct in ontario.
leca is an independent civilian agency that handles public complaints regarding police conduct in ontario.
what was said
durham police chief peter moreira.
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durham police chief peter moreira said the incident occurred during a meeting attended by police officers, civilians and members of the afro-caribbean canadian internal support network back in late february.
at some point during the meeting, kirkpatrick used the ‘n’ word.
moreira said at the time that kirkpatrick’s words were not directed at anyone, but the words were offensive and inconsistent with durham police values.
“we recognize the impact words can have, regardless of intent. drps remains firmly committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive environment where all members feel valued, safe, and supported,” moreira said in a statement at the time.
after the incident, moreira informed the srpsb, and the decision was made to suspend kirkpatrick with pay until an independent was conducted and concluded.
“the board remains deeply committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and culture, and to ensuring that the drps reflects and respects the diverse communities it serves, the srpsb said. “these values are fundamental to how this service operates and how it earns the trust of the public every day.”
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ganderson@postmedia.com
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