Ottawa Police Services Board

February 24, 2014

Chief’s Verbal Report

Good evening,

Black History Month

I want to start off tonight by thanking all the Members for their participation in Black History Month events over this past month.  We value our relationships in the community and are proud to support Black History Month.  This includes events ranging from the official launch at the Library and Archives, to conferences involving youth and community dialogue, church functions, fundraisers and a formal gala. 

Community Builder Award

Just this past weekend, I am proud to report that our service was honoured at the Global Community Alliance Annual Gala and Award Ceremony.  Our Service was presented with a ‘Community Builder Award’ in recognition of our contributions to the community and the courage to make a difference.  The award was given in recognition of the professional service of Members, our community engagement and our efforts with respect to the dialogue related to racial profiling.  Director D. Snoddy and S/S D. Miller were in attendance and accepted the award on behalf of the Service

Let’s Chat Traffic Stop Race Data Collection Project (TSRDCP) - February 6

The Let’s Chat Racial Profiling session, held on February 6, was a success not only from the perspective of the diversity and the numbers who attended, but judging by the quality of the presentations and discussions that took place.  The engagement both inside and out of the OPS on the issue of racial profiling has been outstanding and everyone working on this project is to be congratulated for their contribution so far.

Service Command Centre

I would also like to report progress on our Service Command Centre (SCC) located in our Executive Boardroom at 245 Greenbank.  The Centre is now operational.  At any given time, we can quickly activate the SCC to provide vital support to ongoing police operations or emergencies.

Project Anarchy

A two-year joint forces project targeting the Alkhalil network was completed this month.

The work done by our members, in partnership with the RCMP and the OPP, significantly disrupted the distribution of cocaine and prevented potential violence related to the network from hitting our community.  The network was identified as a priority with clear issues related to public safety concerns and gang related violence here and across the country.  The cocaine seized over the course of the Project represents an approximate street value of $12,250,000.  Vehicles, firearms and imitation firearms were also seized.  A total of nine (9) search warrants were executed throughout various locations within Ottawa, with over 135 police officers being deployed.  Approximately 75 charges of various criminal code acts were laid against nine men.  Given the violence associated with this network on a national and global scale, this is one of the most significant investigations our service has participated in.

Cst. Steven Lewis

You may have already heard through media reports that Det. Steven Lewis of Central District Investigations was assigned a sudden death of an elderly female.  Det. Lewis contacted her next of kin in Northern Ireland to give them the news and offer condolences.  The family travelled to Ottawa and met with Detective Lewis.  After arriving in Ottawa, plans to stay at the residence of their deceased relative fell through and Det. Lewis realized the family was distraught and did not have the financial means to stay at a hotel.  He offered up his residence and hosted the family while in Ottawa as they addressed the funeral arrangements.  His generosity and this act of kindness provided the family a positive experience of Canada and our police service.  His efforts garnered international attention through the media in both Canada and in Northern Ireland.

Amazing People Gala

I would also like to highlight the recognition of OPS Members Stephan McLelland and Const. Jeffrey Eva-Gonzalez who were both nominated for the CTV Amazing People Gala.  Stefan was nominated for his heroism and Jeffrey for his perseverance.  They represent the depth and quality of the character that makes up our membership.

Conducted Energy Weapon Consultation

Finally, I wanted to provide you with an update on the Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW) consultation that is moving ahead, following approval by the Board at the last meeting.  We continue to receive an increasing number of responses to both our internal and external questionnaires and will soon be conducting more targeted consultations with key stakeholders.  Those consultations will include civil liberties organizations, academics and advocates for people suffering with mental health issues including the Canadian Mental Health Association.

Thank you.