Durham police deputy chief suspended after allegedly using ‘offensive’ language during meeting

A high-ranking Durham police officer has been suspended with pay after allegedly making offensive comments during a meeting, according to the chief.

A high-ranking police official has been suspended with pay after allegedly using “offensive” language during a meeting, the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) chief says.

Police sources tell CP24 & CTV News that the officer who was suspended is Deputy Chief Chris Kirkpatrick.

In a statement issued on Thursday night, Chief Peter Moreira said the incident occurred during a meeting of the Afro-Caribbean Canadian Internal Support Network (ACC-ISN) involving an unnamed deputy chief.

According to Durham police, the network provides a “supportive and inclusive space” for Afro-Caribbean Canadian sworn and civilian members of the service.

Moreira said the language, which he noted was not directed at anyone in the meeting, was “inconsistent with our values.”

“We recognize the impact words can have, regardless of intent. DRPS remains firmly committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive environment where all members feel valued, safe, and supported,” Moreira said.

The chief shared that when he learned of the incident, he informed the Durham Regional Police Service Board, which is responsible for the discipline of command.

The board, Moreira said, decided to suspend the deputy chief with pay pursuant to the provisions of the Community Safety and Policing Act.

The chief added that an independent investigation will be conducted.

“DRPS is committed to transparency to foster trust with our community, and we recognize that this requires sharing even challenging information as it pertains to our Service.”

The DRPS board also released a separate statement, saying that it became aware of the incident on Wednesday, and a special meeting was held to discuss the matter.

The board indicated that the deputy chief allegedly used a “racially inappropriate term” during the meeting.

“This alleged misconduct will be investigated by an independent third party with the firm objective of ensuring accountability and demonstrating the Board’s unwavering commitment to the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion,” the statement read.

“The Board and Chief Moreira are committed to ensuring that the DRPS demonstrates the highest standards of professionalism and conduct that earn the trust and confidence of the community.”