THUNDER BAY - A spokesperson with the Thunder Bay Police said staff and officers are still committed to serving the public despite unexpected events relating to command.
Following the revelation that Thunder Bay Police chief, J.P. Levesque has been charged by the Ontario Provincial Police with breach of trust and obstruction of justice, Thunder Bay Police Service spokesperson, Chris Adams, said it does not change the service's commitment to serving the public.
“The men and women who have to serve and protect our community are doing so,” Adams said. “We are still answering calls for service and doing the work that needs to be done and the public should be assured by that.”
Levesque is currently on a medical leave and will be facing his charges in court in June. In Levesque’s absence, deputy chief Sylvie Hauth is now in command. Hauth is currently out of the country and is expected to return June 1.
“She is maintaining constant communication with us,” Adams said. “We are certainly working alongside her and making sure the service goes forward. It’s really important that people realize that nothing has stopped here, we are still doing what needs to be done.”
Adams said it has been a very sobering time for staff and members of the Thunder Bay Police Service who feel under a great deal of pressure. He asks that everyone remains patient with what he calls an evolving situation.
Adams also said the police service continues to cooperate with a review being conducted by the Office of the Independent Police Review Directorate, as well working with all community partners and groups.
“I would also like to say to the indigenous community that we are here to work with you, we have always been here for you, and that relationship is very important to us,” he said.
