South Simcoe police mourn death of officer facing discreditable conduct charges

South Simcoe police Const. Paul Catling is pictured in this undated photo.

The South Simcoe Police Service is mourning the passing of one of its officers.

Const. Paul Catling, a 15-year member of the service, died on Wednesday, according to a release.

Catling was facing nine counts of discreditable conduct under the Police Services Act laid by Barrie police amid an allegation of sexual assault involving two complainants.

A tribunal meeting had been scheduled for Thursday.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues. Our thoughts are with them,” the police service wrote in a statement on Friday. “During this sensitive and difficult time, we ask that everyone respect the privacy of the family and all those impacted as they grieve.”

Catling had served in several roles with South Simcoe police, including traffic enforcement and with the marine unit. He has also been considered a drug recognition expert by the service and provided media relations for South Simcoe Police.

The service did not disclose any information surrounding his cause of death.