Statement: The Expert Panel on Police Officer Deaths by Suicide Report

The Ontario Chief Coroner’s Expert Panel on Police Officer Deaths by Suicide released its report on October 2, 2019. This report addresses important issues related to our police personnels' safety and well-being. The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) was pleased to engage with the Chief Coroner’s office and the Expert Panel throughout the process and looks forward to reviewing the recommendations made by the Panel members.

As an organization, the OACP is committed to assisting police leaders in making their members’ health and well-being a priority. Our people are our greatest assets and deserve our support and care. Ontario police services have and will continue to proactively assist their members through many wellness services, programs, education, etc. We must continue to proactively build resiliency among police services members by developing and implementing evidence-based programs that meet the diversity of needs in all our police organizations. Most importantly and as Ontario’s police leaders, OACP members remain committed to breaking the stigma often associated with mental wellness issues.

Paul Pedersen
Chief of Police, Greater Sudbury Police Service
President, Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police

Issued: October 2, 2019