Suspended Durham police deputy chief says he’ll co-operate with investigation over alleged use of ‘racially inappropriate term’

The Durham Regional Police put out a statement about the incident, deeming it ‘offensive.’ Chris Kirkpatrick has been suspended with pay.

A Durham Regional Police deputy chief who was suspended after allegedly using a “racially inappropriate term” during a meeting says he will co-operate with the investigation into his conduct.

“As it is under investigation, I am ready to fully co-operate in that process but would decline making a statement to the media at this time,” Deputy Chief Chris Kirkpatrick told CP24 on Friday.

Kirkpatrick is alleged to have used the slur during a meeting of the Afro-Caribbean Canadian Internal Support Network (ACC-ISN) earlier this week. The network provides a “supportive and inclusive space” for Afro-Caribbean Canadian sworn and civilian members of the service.

In a statement on Thursday night, Durham police Chief Peter Moreira announced that his deputy had been suspended with pay while a third-party investigation is conducted into the incident.

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 (DRPS) Board, which is responsible for the discipline of the command team.

“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,” Moreira added.

The DRPS board also released a separate statement on Thursday night, 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.

Speaking to CTV News on Friday, Ajax Regional Councillor Sterling Lee said he was “shocked and appalled” by the incident.

Lee repeated his previous calls for more diversity at higher ranks in the service.

“I’m all for merit-based appointments, but if the system itself is inherently flawed and uneven and unfair, then merit has nothing to do with it because you are still going to get a certain type of individual to promote or hire,” the regional councillor said.

Durham Region chair John Henry condemned the incident on Friday.

“The Region is not part of the legislative process, but I have been assured the investigation will be fair, comprehensive and impartial,” Henry said in a statement.

With files from CTV News Toronto’s Allison Hurst and CP24’s Beatrice Vaisman