The death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week has saddened and shaken our community and our service. It is something that should have never happened. What took place was tragic, untenable and does not reflect the training that Ontario police officers receive.
When we chose a career in policing, we did so to help people, to support our community and to make a difference in people’s lives. The Barrie Police Service holds its members to the highest standards, promoting and facilitating procedures, training and evidence based research to ensure that every member of our Service demonstrates acceptable behaviour.
Today, community members came together for a very important reason and peacefully demonstrated. You had a message to share and your message was clearly heard.
As the Chief of Police, I commend those who participated and those who came to observe. Our community is one that recognizes there are challenges that lie ahead and your Police Service is one that recognizes that diversity and inclusion are vital pieces of what is required to allow us to move forward together. Barrie is a vibrant and strong community and together, we will collectively work to make it even better.
| Prepared by: | Corporate Communications |