Recently retired Toronto cop from Barrie charged in illegal gaming investigation

A former Toronto Police officer is facing serious allegations of being involved in an illegal gambling ring.

A former Toronto Police officer who calls Barrie home finds himself facing serious allegations that he was involved in an illegal gambling ring.

Recently retired Toronto Police Constable John Madeley is one of two men police have identified following a probe into illegal online gaming and betting. York Regional Police say the probe involved the accused working with an organized crime group.

Madeley, 55, is accused of breach of trust, unauthorized use of a computer, and possession of a firearm at an unauthorized place, along with possession of a prohibited device and property under $5000 obtained by crime. The investigation was a partnership between York and South Simcoe police officers.

Madeley and 47-year-old Thomas Phippard, also known as Frank the Tank, are alleged to have used threats and violence to intimidate victims to collect their money. Police are asking anyone who recognizes and has had dealings with Phippard to come forward to investigators.

Toronto Police confirmed Madeley retired April 1, 2025, following nearly 30 years of service. While speaking with CTV News in October 2022 at his son’s police graduation ceremony, the second-generation Toronto police officer described the occasion as the “proudest moment” of his life.

Phippard is due back in court in two weeks; Madeley makes his first court appearance next month.

The criminal charges are not the first time the veteran officer has found himself in trouble. According to a Toronto Star investigation, 15 years ago, while late for a union meeting, Madeley took a police cruiser and raced across the city using sirens and driving on the shoulder of a highway to avoid traffic. He was docked two days’ pay for his actions.

Court records obtained by CTV News show Madeley was previously charged with drinking and driving in Newmarket in 2008. The charge was stayed by the Crown.

The allegations against the accused have not been tested in court.