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REPORT RAPPORT |
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DATE:
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25 November 2013 |
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TO/DEST:
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Executive Director, Ottawa Police Services Board |
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FROM/EXP:
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Chief of Police, Ottawa Police Service |
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SUBJECT/OBJET:
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LETTERS OF COMMENDATION
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RECOMMENDATION
That the Ottawa Police Services Board receive this report for information.
BACKGROUND
Attached for the information of the Board are excerpts from letters of appreciation / thanks received from the public since the last regular meeting for services rendered by members of the Ottawa Police Service.
(Original signed by)
Charles Bordeleau
Chief of Police
Attach. (1)
Responsible for the report: Director John Steinbachs
LETTERS OF COMMENDATION
The following letter was addressed to Cst. Eva-Gonzalez, following his speech at the OPS Gala in October:
Date Received: 30 October 2013
From: Member of the Public
OPS Member: Cst. Jeffrey Eva-Gonzalez
Excerpts from letter: I was one among many who had the distinct privilege of hearing your speech at the OPS Gala October 19th. I personally wish to congratulate you for sharing your life story with all those present at the Gala. Although you received a lengthy standing ovation from members and the audience, I felt that was insufficient to show the community’s appreciation of you. We were all truly saddened to hear of the tragic losses your mother, brothers and yourself endured since your arrival to Canada. Your sheer determination to forge ahead and do everything necessary to become a member of the Ottawa Police Service, despite the obstacles and tragedies that you so eloquently detailed for us, speaks volumes of your personal character and integrity. It is evident that in light of your family’s significant struggles, you could have easily been swept into a life of conflict with the law. Undoubtedly, your spouse, children, brothers, extended family, and most importantly your mother, must all be so very proud of you! In my view, you are indeed the ‘poster child’ whose message has to be extended to as many youth as possible in this city: a message that when you are determined to reach ahead, (despite all the difficulties that may face you), success can be achieved! It may very well be difficult at times, but with determination and guidance such as you have exhibited, your goals are attainable.
Date Received: 4 October 2013
From: Member of the Public
OPS Member: Cst. Dinis Oliveira
Excerpts from letter: I was involved in a car accident on Smyth Road and would like to thank all the great people who came to help: the dedicated nurse, just off duty, who stopped to apply first aid on a wound; the team of paramedics which included Nathalie, for their superb and knowledgeable care; then, this extraordinary policeman, Dinis Oliveira who, at the General campus, dealt with me with so much kindness and compassion. I felt like he was talking to and taking care of his own mom.
Date Received: 27 September 2013
From: Member of the Public
OPS Members: Constable DeJong
Excerpts from letter: I just wanted to write and say thank you to the Ottawa Police Department for attending the funeral of Indianapolis police officer Rod Bradway who was killed in the line of duty. It truly hits home when such tragedy occurs. I truly appreciate the officers that were able to take time out of their week to fly down and attend the funeral. It makes me extremely grateful to be in the process of immigrating into a city with such amazing and honourable people. I also truly appreciate everything that all the officers for your department do. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Date Received: 3 September, 2013
From: Member of the Public
OPS Member: Cst. Mélanie St. Louis
Excerpts from letter: Thank you for caring for my mother's case with such sensitivity, and delicateness. You are in an occupation that contains on a day to day basis, anything but those characteristics -- a very dangerous job, thankless at times, and dealing with the miscreants of society. Again, I want to thank you for handling such a delicate matter so professionally. The Service should be recruiting more candidates with attributes similar to yours.
Date Received: 15 September 2013
From: Member of the Public
OPS Member: Cst. Baechler
Excerpts from letter: I was pulled over by Cst. Paul Baechler because I did not have proper stickers on my vehicle. Throughout my interaction with him he was polite and professional. He took the time to explain things to me in a patient and kind way. He was completely non-judgmental with me, which I need to say MUST have been very difficult under the circumstances which I believed at the time to be extremely idiotic. Hats off to officer Baechler.
Date Received: 9 September 2013
From: Member of the Public
Excerpts from letter: I would like to thank all the police officers who supported and secured our "Egypt Anti-coup Rally" on Saturday Sep 7th. The team was just amazing and I wish I got the chance to take all the officers’ names to thank them. Please pass to them that we are very grateful to all their hard work.
Date Received: 20 September 2013
From: Member of the Public
OPS Member: Lisa Grisson
Excerpts from letter: Late at night, fire and ambulance services were called to my neighbours' home to respond to a health emergency. I was at their home shortly after police arrived and was able to witness the wonderful work the officers involved provided. The gentleman involved unfortunately died and was pronounced at home. The officers were compassionate, caring and were excellent at explaining what was happening to his wife as it was happening in a way in which she was able to understand in her shocked state. One officer in particular was amazing - I only know her first name - Lisa. I would like to recognize her efforts as well as everyone at the house that night for their professionalism and for giving comfort and genuine care in a horrible situation. On a day in which so much other tragedy had taken place, it was truly heartwarming to see. Thank you so much for all that you do.