For five consecutive years, Ottawa Police have disproportionately used force against Black and Middle Eastern residents, according to a report on use of force in 2025. The data reveals that Black people are three times more likely to be subjected to force than their share of the population, and Middle Eastern residents face similar disparities. Last year, 24.5 per cent of individuals subjected to force were Black, despite comprising only eight per cent of Ottawa's population. Similarly, 11 per cent of subjects of force were of Middle Eastern origin, while they make up just six per cent of the city's population. No other demographic groups experience such disproportionate treatment.
No Evidence of Higher Crime Rates Among Targeted Groups
The report does not explain why these disparities exist, and there is no evidence that these groups commit more crimes than others. A 2024 Department of Justice report states, "Overrepresentation (of Black people in criminal justice system) occurs at all stages of the system — policing, courts and correction — in significant numbers relative to the rest of Canada." It adds, "It is essential to recognize that Black people are not more predisposed to criminal activity than any group of people, racialized or non-racialized." The numbers have remained consistent since 2020, when Ontario police forces were mandated to collect race data on use-of-force subjects.
Pattern Suggests Systemic Issue, Not a Few Bad Apples
The abuse cannot be dismissed as the work of a few bad officers, as the pattern spans multiple officers and victims over several years. Combined with ongoing sexual abuse and harassment allegations within the Ottawa Police Service (OPS), questions arise about the ability of police leadership to control officers and the effectiveness of the Ottawa Police Services Board in providing oversight. The board discussed the latest use-of-force report at a recent meeting but offered no solutions.
Board Vice-Chair Deflects Responsibility
Coun. Marty Carr, vice-chair of the board, stated in an interview that the police service must answer for the disproportionate use of force, not the board. "With respect, it is not the board that is using the force. That is OPS. That's for the OPS to answer," Carr said. She explained that the board sets objectives, but operational matters and officer behavior are not its responsibility. Later, she issued an email statement condemning the incidents: "The disproportionate use of force against racialized residents is unacceptable." The statement acknowledged a "year over year increase in incidents in 2025" but claimed that board initiatives "have not yet had sufficient time to produce full results."
Lack of Seriousness in Addressing Institutional Problem
Critics argue that the board's response reflects a lack of seriousness in tackling a long-standing institutional problem. Former chief Peter Sloly was criticized by the police union for acknowledging systemic racism in policing in a Citizen op-ed, despite multiple reports confirming its existence. The ongoing disparities and the board's perceived inaction raise concerns about equal treatment under the law in Canada's capital.
