Over the past several months, the Greater City of Sudbury has been thrust into the national spotlight due to a scandal that has shaken the political landscape in Ontario ahead of an upcoming by-election. On January 5, 2015, Glenn Thibeault sent shockwaves through the federal NDP party when he officially defected to run for Kathleen Wynne’s provincial Liberal party in the imminent Sudbury by-election. The by-election was triggered by the sudden resignation of provincial NDP MP Joe Cimino, who left his position after a mere five months in office, creating headlines by forgoing his $58,000 severance package from Queen’s Park.

As anticipated by a political “kingmaker” at the heart of the story, the situation generated a “tidal wave” of reactions. However, the real bombshell dropped a few days later when Andrew Olivier, the Liberal candidate from the previous summer’s general election (in which NDP candidate Cimino emerged victorious), claimed that he was offered a job or ‘appointment in the party’ on the condition that he step aside and not contest the Liberal nomination, paving the way for Thibeault’s candidacy.

Initially, the allegations were met with skepticism from the media and authorities. However, the situation escalated when Andrew Olivier released audio recordings of conversations with Gerry Lougheed Jr. (Sudbury Liberal Fundraiser) and Patricia Sorbara (Liberal Campaign Director), who seemingly offered him a job or appointment if he refrained from running as the Liberal candidate.

The revelations sent shock waves through Sudbury and the provincial political arena, casting a shadow on respected community member Gerry Lougheed Jr. and high-ranking Liberal party executive Patricia Sorbara, who were now accused of attempting to bribe Olivier.

The public outcry prompted an ongoing investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) anti-racketeering division. Despite the controversy, Glen Thibault was still elected to Queen’s Park, and Kathleen Wynne’s ‘plan for Sudbury’ moved one step closer to fruition.

However, a deeper issue appears to be brewing in the Sudbury community, centering around Gerry Lougheed Jr., who is currently under investigation by the OPP’s anti-racketeering division and serves as the Chair of the Sudbury Police Services Board.

Many argue that this situation highlights a lack of moral integrity within the Greater Sudbury Police at the executive level. Days after the OPP announced their investigation, the Police Services Board unanimously voted for Lougheed to remain as Chair, despite community leaders’ objections.

The recent controversy is just one example of the Greater Sudbury Police Service’s apparent decline in self-responsibility, a pattern that extends beyond allegations of aiding and abetting a racketeer. A closer examination of recent news events involving Sudbury’s police service reveals that this lack of moral integrity is not a new development, but rather a growing problem within a once-respected public institution.

The questionable actions of the police service can be traced back further than this past winter’s by-election, with incidents from the recent past now coming under scrutiny when viewed chronologically. One such incident occurred on June 8th, 2014, and only came to light months later. At around 2 a.m., a Sudbury police officer was booking a 20-year-old man into the police headquarters on charges of public intoxication and resisting arrest, charges that would later be dropped. The events that transpired during the booking process would ultimately capture national attention.

Tanner Currie alleges excessive force used while in Sudbury police custody

A Sudbury, Ontario man claims that he was manhandled by a police officer and maintains that he has video evidence to back up his assertion. The footage, captured on police cameras at Sudbury police headquarters, displays two separate instances of Constable Christopher Labreche hurling 20-year-old Tanner Currie, face-first, into a police station window, shattering the glass.

Following the release of the video, the Sudbury Police quickly announced that they had conducted an internal investigation into the incident when it occurred and concluded that the officer’s use of force was justified and without misconduct.

Sudbury Police Superintendent Sheilah Weber stated that an internal investigation cleared Labreche of any wrongdoing, acknowledging the community’s concerns whenever an officer employs force in such situations. Weber requested the public’s patience and understanding, asserting that the legislative process would reveal the entire facts of the case and allow for informed conclusions.

Internal use of force review cleared Labreche

Sudbury Police Chief Paul Pedersen issued a statement, emphasizing that the Greater Sudbury Police Service takes these matters very seriously and adheres to a series of checks, balances, and civilian oversight agencies concerning the use of force. He assured the community that all requirements had been met and followed in this case.

Pedersen also noted that the individual in question attempted a non-negotiable financial settlement and failed to cooperate with the police department’s Professional Standards investigators. Consequently, the individual decided to file a private information in criminal court and release the video footage. As the case is currently before the courts, the police are unable to comment further.

The Sudbury Police Services Board, chaired by Gerry Lougheed Jr., expressed satisfaction with the investigation clearing Labreche of any wrongdoing and considered the matter resolved.

Following the publicized incident, another individual came forward with a similar experience that had occurred outside the Sudbury Court House two years prior. The situation sparked concerns about the police’s handling of such incidents and their ability to effectively identify and address instances of excessive force.

Sick man complains of police treatment after he lights a joint outside courthouse

A 27-year-old man with metabolic myopathy, liver failure, and cystic fibrosis complained of rough treatment by police after lighting a joint outside the courthouse. The incident occurred during a break in Dave Sylvestre’s sentencing hearing for marijuana production, with Jamy MacKenzie and about 40 other supporters present.

The debate over Canada’s marijuana laws was front and centre in Sudbury

MacKenzie, who holds a license to consume 35 grams of marijuana per day for medical reasons, didn’t have it on him when an officer spotted him lighting up. Instead, he produced his driver’s license, which apparently sparked a confrontation with the police.

According to MacKenzie and several witnesses, the police tried to arrest him, and one officer threw him against a wall. Family friend Sue Johnson asked the police to let him go, but they called paramedics instead. However, MacKenzie refused to go to the hospital, and Johnson called the altercation “disgusting.”

The incident generated controversy, with some witnesses accusing the police of using excessive force and the crowd yelling obscenities at the officers. Although police called for more cruisers and paramedics, they did not say whether they would proceed with charges against MacKenzie.

Months later, the Sudbury Police Investigations Unit dismissed MacKenzie’s complaints about being roughed up by police. The SIU also decided not to investigate the incident further. The charges against MacKenzie were eventually dropped after he produced his medical marijuana card. However, news emerged that the officer involved was the same one who allegedly used excessive force against MacKenzie two years earlier, raising concerns about the police’s ability to identify and address instances of excessive force.

‘I know that shove well’

Jamy McKenzie, who had a physical altercation with Constable Christopher Labreche two years ago outside the Sudbury courthouse, identified with Tanner Currie’s recent allegations of police brutality after seeing footage of the officer slamming Currie into a glass pane. McKenzie said that Labreche had thrown him into a wall when he refused to give up his medical marijuana, leaving him with two broken ribs and bruises.

McKenzie, who suffers from cystic fibrosis and metabolic myopathy, said that Labreche had accused him of resisting arrest when he was merely spasming due to his illness. Although he filed a complaint with the Special Investigations Unit, he was told that his injuries were not serious enough to warrant further investigation. McKenzie struggled with post-traumatic stress following the incident and had difficulty explaining the bruises to his daughter.

Despite a lawyer’s willingness to take on his case, McKenzie eventually dropped his complaint against Labreche due to the lengthy court process and high costs. McKenzie believes that both the SIU and the Police Services Board overlooked Labreche’s prior allegations of excessive force when clearing him of wrongdoing.

Sudbury Police Constable Chris Labreche charged with assault – CBC

Sudbury Police Constable Christopher Labreche was charged with assault after a closed hearing before a justice of the peace found enough evidence to warrant prosecution. The charge stemmed from an incident in the spring of 2014 when Labreche allegedly used excessive force against Tanner Currie, who was in police custody at the time.

Sudbury Police officials had conducted an internal investigation into the incident and cleared Labreche of wrongdoing. Gerry Lougheed Jr., the chair of the Sudbury Police Services Board, also publicly stated that he was satisfied with the investigation’s results and that Labreche had used reasonable force.

However, the subsequent charge against Labreche raised questions about the integrity of the police’s investigation and the Board’s review. The video evidence reviewed by the justice of the peace was reportedly the same as that reviewed by the Sudbury Police superintendent, prompting questions about the discrepancy between the two reviews. The charge against Labreche also raised concerns about the police’s understanding of the law and their willingness to prosecute officers accused of wrongdoing.

The handling of the initial investigation by the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) has come under scrutiny, with even the victim’s lawyer expressing disappointment. In a scathing critique, the legal representative hinted that the Crown had attempted to impede his access to critical evidence.

Video of police brutality leads to assault charge against Constable Labreche

“From my perspective, this demonstrates access to justice. The Greater Sudbury Police exonerated Const. Labreche, but when we brought this incident forward, there was a decision in our favour. This reflects well on the accountability of the justice system.” – Lawyer representing the victim

The Greater Sudbury Police Service is facing criticism for not taking action against Constable Labreche, despite him facing assault charges. The force has been accused of shielding one of their own employees and failing to hold the officer accountable. It is unusual for an employee facing criminal charges to remain on duty, and many have questioned why a police officer, who represents the law, is being treated differently. The case is set to proceed in a few weeks.

Sudbury police officer to remain on active duty despite assault charges

“The Sudbury police service, as an employer, has an obligation to the members of our service and to the public to ensure that our personnel are fit for duty and are held accountable for their actions. It is important to note that, like all citizens, members of our service are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.” – Police Chief Paul Pedersen

The decision to allow Constable Labreche to remain on active duty despite facing assault charges has raised concerns about the Sudbury Police Service’s interpretation of the law and accountability measures. The case sets a concerning precedent, as it may erode public trust in the police force if an officer facing criminal charges is allowed to continue serving on duty. Many have pointed out that this decision contradicts standard employment practices in other industries, where employees facing criminal charges would typically be suspended or terminated.

The situation in Sudbury has become increasingly concerning, with evidence of a pattern of behavior by the Sudbury Police coming to light. The recent provincial byelection scandal has exposed a similar approach, with the police providing support to individuals facing criminal investigations within city service positions.

It is becoming apparent that this is not an isolated incident but rather a broader issue, reflecting a lack of moral integrity on the part of the Sudbury Police. The question arises as to whether this is due to complacency and incompetence, or whether there is a willingness to be complicit in such behavior.

Following allegations of bribery by the Liberal party in exchange for a party position, calls for the Police Service Board Chairman to step down were met with a stern response from Lougheed himself. The seriousness of these allegations cannot be ignored, and it is crucial that the Sudbury Police demonstrate accountability and transparency in their actions going forward.

Won’t resign from police board, Lougheed says

“I think it’s all about politics,” Lougheed said. “I have no intention of stepping down. If there’s any wrongdoing found, I will voluntarily step down at that time.”

The Ontario Provincial Police’s initial inquiry revealed that there was no indication of criminal intent in relation to comments made by Liberal officials, Lougheed and Sobrara, during the by-election scandal. However, several weeks later, Andrew Olivier, a quadriplegic individual who records conversations due to his inability to take notes, publicly released audio recordings of both Lougheed and Sobrara. These recordings provided a more comprehensive understanding of the specifics of what the Liberals proposed to Olivier.

Andrew Olivier Releases Audio Recordings of Liberal Officials’ Alleged Appointment Offer

“I heard the words ‘appointments,’ ‘jobs,’ ‘position,’ ‘advisor’ — it was pretty clear to me that they were trying to dangle a carrot in front of me to step aside,” said Olivier in an interview with CBC News.

Pat Sorbara call to Andrew Olivier – December 12th 2014 – Audio

The transcript involves a conversation between Sobrara and Olivier, with Sobrara trying to persuade Olivier to run for a political position. Olivier is hesitant because he heard about the tough calls the Premier has to make and is unsure if he can handle it. Sobrara shares a story about how the Premier handled a difficult situation and how she appreciated Olivier’s willingness to listen. Olivier expresses his respect for the Premier and the party but doesn’t want things to get nasty. Sobrara suggests they think about other ways to approach the situation. The conversation occurs between 12:51 and 15:50.

Conversation between Gerry Lougheed and Andrew Olivier Dec. 11th 2014

The second transcript is a conversation between Lougheed and Olivier discussing Glenn Thibeault’s decision to run for the Liberals in the upcoming provincial election after crossing the floor from the NDP. Lougheed, speaking on behalf of the Premier and Thibeault, asks Olivier to step down and nominate Thibeault instead. The Premier wants to offer Olivier options for appointments, jobs, or other future support, but Olivier needs time to consider the proposal. Lougheed emphasizes the need for secrecy and mentions that very few people know about Thibeault’s decision. Olivier expresses surprise and acknowledges that it would be a big change of plans for him.

Lougheed and Olivier discuss the possibility of Olivier stepping down from running for the Ontario Liberal Party nomination in favor of Glenn Thibeault. Lougheed questions what’s in it for Olivier if he takes the high road, but Olivier is leaning towards running. Lougheed suggests that Olivier and the Premier should talk and Olivier should consider what’s best for the riding and the Wynne government. They also discuss potential candidates from the NDP and how Olivier should make a statement if he steps down. The conversation ends with Lougheed telling Olivier to hear everyone’s voice and then listen to his own. The conversation lasts from 9:43 to 19:29.

Following the release of audio recordings related to the Sudbury bribery scandal, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) expressed their heightened level of concern regarding the recorded conversations. The OPP indicated that they would take legal action to obtain the recordings, as they were not provided to them by former Liberal staffer Patricia Sorbara during their initial investigation. The recordings have caused a renewed interest in the bribery scandal that has resulted in charges against Sorbara and Gerry Lougheed Jr., who allegedly offered a bribe to former Sudbury candidate Andrew Olivier to step aside for Glenn Thibeault, who subsequently became the Sudbury MPP for the Liberal party.

Ontario Provincial Police Seek Court Order for Sudbury Bribery Scandal Recordings

“We have to investigate and assess the impact of the tapes on the case,” said OPP Detective Inspector Tim Smith. “We’ll take whatever investigative steps are necessary.”

The day following the release of the report, voters in Sudbury headed to the polls for the provincial by-election. However, the ongoing scandal took a dramatic turn as the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) filed court documents, indicating that they had reasonable grounds to believe that two Liberal advisors, Gerry Lougheed Jr. and Patricia Sorbara, had violated the Criminal Code. The court documents added to the mounting pressure on the Liberal party, as they struggled to contain the scandal in the midst of the election.

Ontario Provincial Police File Court Documents in Sudbury Bribery Scandal

“The OPP has reasonable grounds to believe that the two individuals named in the court documents have committed the offences of bribery of an officer, contrary to the Criminal Code of Canada,” reads the court document filed by the OPP.

Despite the late-breaking news, it is doubtful that it would have had an impact on the election outcome. Glenn Thibeault secured a victory for the Liberal party in Sudbury through any means necessary. However, with the bribery scandal still in the spotlight, the question remains whether Premier Kathleen Wynne and Thibeault can win over the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).

Sudbury Byelection: Can Wynne and Thibeault Win Over the OPP?

“The premier has said from the beginning that we will co-operate with any investigation that’s underway,” said Thibeault. “But in the meantime, I’m focusing on doing the job that people elected me to do.”

After the Sudbury bribery scandal, the Greater Sudbury Police Service faced increasing pressure to remove Gerry Lougheed Jr. from his role as the Chair of the Police Services Board. However, the board made a controversial decision to retain Lougheed as their chair, despite the allegations against him. Similarly, there were calls for Patricia Sorbara, Premier Wynne’s deputy chief of staff, to step down, but these demands were also rejected.

Police board votes to keep Lougheed as chair

Members of the Greater Sudbury Police Services board have voted to keep Gerry Lougheed Jr. as board chair until the conclusion of an OPP investigation into the Andrew Olivier scandal.

According to recent reports, the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) has released an official statement asserting that the allegations of electoral tampering are unrelated to the role of Lougheed as the chair of the Police Service Board.

Greater Sudbury Police Service Board to investigate alleged text messages

“The board will conduct an investigation in accordance with the Municipal Act and the Police Services Act, and will act in a manner that is transparent, accountable and respects the principles of natural justice.” – Chair of the Greater Sudbury Police Service Board, Michael Vagnini

Calls for the removal of Lougheed from his position came from various sources, including opposition parties, grassroots political organizations, and community leaders throughout the province. These demands were made until Lougheed was cleared of any alleged wrongdoing, either through voluntary resignation or official removal from his position.

Sudbury Liberals Withdraw Andrew Olivier As Candidate Amid Controversy

“We believe that the work of the Liberal Party of Ontario and our government is too important to be burdened by the controversy surrounding the Sudbury riding nomination.” – Statement from the Ontario Liberal Party

NDP MPP Gilles Bisson called for a thorough investigation and expressed his concerns about the possible impact of the controversy on the public’s perception of the political process.

Gilles Bisson calls for investigation into Sudbury riding nomination

“The public has a right to know exactly what has happened here and whether there has been any wrongdoing.” – Gilles Bisson, Member of Provincial Parliament for Timmins-James Bay

Local political organizations in Sudbury have expressed their apprehension about Lougheed continuing in his position amidst the controversy.

Sudbury taxpayers group wants Gerry Lougheed to give up post

“Given the level of accusations that have been made against Gerry Lougheed, it is difficult to see how he can continue to hold the position of chair of the police services board and maintain the public’s confidence.” – Douglas Craig, Chair of the Sudbury Taxpayers Association.

Taxpayers Association wants Gerry Lougheed Jr. to step down

“It is difficult to see how he can continue to hold the position of chair of the police services board and maintain the public’s confidence.” – Douglas Craig, Chair of the Sudbury Taxpayers Association.

Ontario NDP critic for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, Peter Tabuns, has also called for an investigation by the province’s Conflict of Interest Commissioner into Gerry Lougheed’s alleged actions during the Sudbury riding nomination. Tabuns has cited concerns about potential conflicts of interest and breaches of ethical standards.

MPP wants conflict chief to investigate Lougheed

“I think there is reason to believe there was an effort here to influence a political decision by someone who had a conflict of interest, and that should be investigated.” – Peter Tabuns, Ontario NDP Critic for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry.

There were demands made for Patricia Sobrara to step down from her position until the investigations into the allegations were concluded, mirroring the calls made for Gerry Lougheed Jr. to resign amidst the controversy.

Andrea Horwath says Premier’s aide should follow path of Greg Sorbara

“What we have here is a scandal, a scandal that needs to be investigated to the fullest.” – Andrea Horwath, Ontario NDP Leader.

Traditionally, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) awaits the determination of one of the involved agencies before launching their own investigation in such circumstances. In the current situation, the OPP is expected to await the outcome of the investigation by Elections Canada, which confirmed on February 19th that they believed the Liberal Party had violated the law.

Elections Ontario finds ‘apparent contravention’ of Election Act by Liberals

“There are grounds to believe that the party’s Sudbury electoral district association and Gerry Lougheed Jr., a Liberal fundraiser and chair of the Sudbury police board, contravened the act.” – Greg Essensa, Chief Electoral Officer for Elections Ontario.

In light of recent developments, the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) has maintained their decision despite mounting criticism. Despite several opportunities to handle the matter with due diligence, the GSPS opted to allow a man potentially facing criminal investigation to remain on the city’s payroll as the top civilian overseer of the police force. This decision, coupled with the case of Constable Christopher Labreche, has brought significant shame to Sudbury.

The repeated support and lies of two members of their staff currently facing criminal allegations have raised questions about the GSPS’s ability to maintain the public’s trust. The continuous protection of their own, even at the cost of enforcing the law, has left discerning citizens with little confidence that such matters will receive adequate oversight and review. Allowing Lougheed to continue chairing the Police Services Board will indicate that the GSPS has little regard for social integrity or public opinion.

The relationship between the public and the police that are supposed to serve them is perfectly exemplified by the story of SCAP member Crystal Kimewon. With serious allegations of racism surrounding the GSPS, it is reasonable to question whether the public will continue to give them the benefit of the doubt. When an officer who had been cleared by the GSPS was charged by an out-of-town justice of the peace who had only reviewed the same video evidence as the GSPS, it becomes difficult to accept anything they say at face value.

Three SCAP Members Arrested at Shelter Following Police Investigation

“It’s a significant investigation that’s been ongoing for some time now,” – Staff Sgt. Al Leblanc

During the incident, Kimewon was arrested in front of her twelve-year-old son. She has alleged that the reason for her targeting was her race, as she identifies as a First Nations Aboriginal.

Sudbury Homeless Advocate Speaks Out About Arrest

“I felt violated, criminalized, discriminated against, and left alone in a cell with no one to talk to,” – Crystal Kimewon

In a subsequent article, Kimewon further discussed an incident where she read a letter from her band chief on the steps of the Sudbury Court House. The letter called for the GSPS to address allegations of racism.

Sudbury’s S-CAP Calls for Greater Police Accountability Following Shelter Arrests

“We need to be accountable and responsible for our actions as a service,” – Paul Pedersen, Deputy Chief of the Greater Sudbury Police Service.

Crystal Kimewon’s Facebook page contained a detailed excerpt from a letter written by Wiikwemkoong Chief, Duke Peltier, regarding her recent arrest. Kimewon, who was charged with “trespassing and causing a disturbance,” is a band member of Wiikwemkoong. The letter commended her dedication to advocating on behalf of the vulnerable and less fortunate, explaining that she was trying to communicate with Salvation Army staff regarding the situation of an individual who needed shelter.

The letter also alleged that Kimewon may have experienced a human rights violation due to racism, which created a hostile and violent environment leading to the charges against her. Chief Peltier called for the charges to be dropped and the allegations of racism to be investigated. The letter concluded by stating that Wiikwemkoong does not tolerate racism against any of its members and that they will closely monitor the situation.

The refusal of the GSPS to remove Lougheed from his position, despite pressure from local and provincial leaders, has raised questions about their honesty and integrity. Without significant police reform, or at least a degree of respect for the laws of the land, it will be challenging to establish a relationship of trust between law enforcement and private citizens.