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After what it describes as a “thorough” investigation, the Ontario Provincial Police won’t be charging North Bay Mayor Peter Chirico with a criminal offence.

Chirico came under heavy criticism for his use of the corporate credit card, when it emerged he had used it for more than $16,000 in personal expenses, including golf club memberships and pet food.

He has since paid the money back, but the controversy led to an investigation by North Bay’s integrity commissioner. North Bay police also received a formal complaint,

which it referred to the OPP because of a conflict.

Chirico was also ordered not to take part in discussions by the North Bay police services board while Ontario’s Inspector General of Policing conducted its own investigation.

Pay was suspended

The integrity commissioner eventually ruled that $5,500 of the expenses the mayor claimed violated the city’s code of conduct, but said many of the other expenses reflected “poor practices” that should be addressed in tighter expense rules.

City council later voted to suspend the mayor’s pay for 60 days.

In a statement April 29, the OPP said it has concluded there is no basis for criminal charges in the case.

“The Ontario Provincial Police appreciates the public interest in this matter, particularly as it concerns allegations against a public elected official,” OPP Const. Kyler Brouwer said in an email.

“The OPP Anti‑Rackets Branch conducted a thorough and professional investigation into this matter. That investigation has concluded and charges are not being laid.”

In a statement to CTV News, Chirico had this to say:

“Police have an obligation to review and address complaints when they are made, and I am pleased to learn that this matter has been reviewed through the appropriate process and has now been concluded.”