REPORT RAPPORT

DATE:	27 January 2014
TO/DEST:	Executive Director, Ottawa Police Services Board
FROM/EXP:	Director General, Ottawa Police Service
SUBJECT/OBJET:	NEW APPOINTMENT OF SPECIAL CONSTABLE – OTTAWA POLICE SERVICE

RECOMMENDATION

That the Ottawa Police Services Board approve the appointment of Mr. Gordon Jones as a Special Constable pursuant to Section 53 of the Police Services Act, in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in the attached appointment form.

BACKGROUND

This current serving civilian member of the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) requires appointment as a Special Constable to fulfill expanded duties within the Intelligence Section of the OPS. An application has been made to the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services to have him appointed as Special Constable pursuant to Section 53 of the Police Services Act. Upon approval by the Ministry, the Ottawa Police Services Board (Board) appoints members as Special Constable for a five year period, or until the appointee is no longer in the employ of the Ottawa Police Service. Upon the termination of employment, the OPS will advise the Ministry to terminate the appointment.

DISCUSSION

The Board is being asked to approve this appointment as Special Constable in accordance with the above noted process. 

Mr. Jones’ current responsibilities include supervising the civilian members working in the Criminal Intelligence monitoring room and ensuring that proper protocols are followed. Under Section 487.01 of the Criminal Code of Canada, only a peace officer is able to gather video evidence that can later be used in obtaining a warrant. In the past, this requirement has necessitated the presence of a police officer in the monitoring room when evidence of this nature was being gathered. Appointing Mr. Jones as a Special Constable is an example of OPS’ efforts to ensure the optimization of the deployment of sworn officers. This appointment will free up a police officer’s time and allow for enhanced overall file management. 

Given Mr. Jones’s responsibilities, he will not be trained in the use of force, or provided with any use of force options. The appointment of Special Constables to gather specific evidence as identified by the Criminal Code of Canada is a best practice utilized by other Services in Ontario. Mr. Jones will be trained in the legislation pertaining to his appointment.  

Approval has been obtained from the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services to have Mr. Jones appointed as Special Constable.  Pursuant to Section 53 of the Police Services Act, upon the Board conferring appointment of his status, Mr. Jones will be required to undertake the Oath of Office by the Chief of Police.

CONSULTATION

Not applicable.

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

Not applicable.

CONCLUSION

The appointment of a Special Constable to provide supervision and oversight in the Criminal Intelligence monitoring room will provide the OPS with an efficiency and enhanced overall management of intelligence files. 

(Original signed by)

Charles Bordeleau

Chief of Police

Attach. (1)

Responsible for Report:  Director General Debra Frazer