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Ontario Association of Police Service Board &
Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police
Welcome Independent Review by Inspector General of Policing
Date: February 9, 2026
The Ontario Association of Police Service Boards (OAPSB) and the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) welcome today’s announcement by Ontario’s Inspector General of Policing of an independent review of integrity and anti-corruption practices across Ontario’s police sector that may reveal lessons, policies, and standards that can be shared industry wide.
As leaders responsible for the governance and operational effectiveness of police services in the Province of Ontario, we share the dismay of Ontarians following the results of the Project South investigation. The allegations are profoundly troubling. When organized crime infiltrates policing, the harm extends far beyond the individuals involved and poses a serious risk to public confidence in policing itself.
The findings of the investigation strike at the very heart of public trust—trust that police professionals rely on to serve communities effectively and keep people safe. That is why we welcome an independent review of the issues raised by these serious criminal allegations, as well as any vulnerabilities that may undermine public trust.
Independent oversight is fundamental to maintaining confidence in policing and police governance. The Inspectorate of Policing plays a critical role in independently examining conduct of police board members, compliance with statutory obligations, and adherence to ethical standards across Ontario’s policing system.
The OAPSB and the OACP believe that the Inspector General of Policing’s findings, once completed, may provide valuable insights that could support continuous improvement in police governance practices. These insights could assist police service boards and leaders in ensuring their organizations and members meet Ontarians’ expectations for integrity, accountability, and effectiveness.
Police service boards and police leaders across Ontario are united in their commitment to working collaboratively with oversight bodies and police sector partners. Together, we are determined to support police service boards and police leaders in fulfilling their vital governance and operational responsibilities.
Corruption has no place in policing. It is a direct attack on public confidence, and protecting the public trust is non-negotiable. The OAPSB and the OACP recognize and are grateful for the professionalism and dedication of police service members across Ontario who serve their communities with integrity every day. Accountability and support remain complementary and essential principles in sustaining public trust.
Sincerely,
Chief Mark Campbell Al Boughton
President Chair
Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Ontario Association of Police Service Boards
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