Durham Regional Police – Statement from the Deputy Chief Constable – Today Northumberland

On Friday, October 25, 2024, Deputy Chief Kirkpatrick shared a message with our organization. In our ongoing commitment to transparency, both in our service and with the community, we would like to share the following with you.

“When I had the privilege of joining the Durham Regional Police Service as your Deputy Chief, I did so sharing the Chief’s priorities of building trust, community partnerships and modernization. Building trust is not only external, but also internal. Transparency and accountability are key components of this.

On June 5 and 6, I drove my vehicle with a police permit in a manner that would undermine public confidence in the police; speeding without legal justification. Although I may not have been ticketed, I immediately reported what happened to the Chief Constable, who in turn reported it to the Durham Regional Policing Board (DRPSB). Under the CSPA, a misconduct investigation was referred by the DRPSB to the Peel Regional Police Service. Just two days ago, this investigative process concluded and I accepted the board’s decision and full responsibility for my actions. I received a significant penalty commensurate with my rank, a loss of 94 hours.

As all police officers are entitled when faced with a misconduct investigation, I followed due process. Chairman Collier was quoted in the media in August as saying “all DRPS members are expected to be exemplary in their behaviour, and this is particularly true of the organisation’s leaders”. He is right and senior leaders are held to a higher standard. I fell short of the standard I set for myself and took responsibility.

While I deeply regret my actions, I hope this serves as a reminder to DRPS that as leaders we are in fact held to a higher standard, we are held accountable, and it is a step towards the priority of building trust. While members are not expected to comment publicly on matters of discipline, as Deputy Chief I felt it was important to be transparent with each of you and maintain respect for the leadership of this organization.”