Chief Truong speaks out amidst Ottawa Police investigation into London officer

London's Police Chief Thai Truong is responding to public concern after he suspended one of his officers.

London’s chief of police is responding to public concern about the suspension of a city police officer.

On Monday, the Ottawa Police Service confirmed a criminal investigation into an off-duty London police officer is underway following a reported incident this past weekend.

Media reports indicate the person is a high-ranking member of the force.

At the London Police Service Board meeting Thursday, Chief Thai Truong confirmed an internal investigation will begin, pending the outcome of the Ottawa investigation or, should any charges be laid, court proceedings.

He also addressed public concerns regarding the officer’s suspension – with full pay – in an interview with CTV News.

“Under the CSPA (Community Safety and Policing Act), the act that governs misconduct for our members, and allows me and gives me the authority to respond and engage. It does not allow me to suspend and withhold pay of this member. I don’t have that ability whatsoever in these circumstances. There are circumstances that would permit me to suspend with pay. But, in this specific incident, with this officer, I don’t have authority to withhold pay,” said Truong.