An Ontario Provincial Police officer who once oversaw security for the premier of Ontario is taking legal action against his police service and union, alleging they destroyed his career following an arrest on gun charges that were later dismissed by a judge who sharply criticized the flawed prosecution.
Lawsuit Details
The lawsuit, filed last Tuesday by OPP Staff Sergeant Roberto Manca, claims the OPP's actions have devastated his law enforcement career and drained his finances, while his union failed to provide adequate support. Manca, 56, remains an OPP officer but has been suspended since 2020 after a fellow officer accused him and three others of 'tyrannical conduct' during firearms training.
Arrest and Charges
Manca described the day of his arrest as traumatic. In March 2020, he was ordered to surrender his badge and gun pending an internal investigation. Six months later, he was arrested publicly outside his Barrie, Ontario home. 'It was something out of a movie scene. You would think I had murdered someone,' Manca said. Two uniformed officers arrested him on his driveway, followed by several more officers entering his home.
Initially charged with four counts of recklessly discharging a firearm and four counts of carelessly using a firearm, the OPP issued a media release stating the incidents did not involve the public. Manca maintained his innocence, stating the allegations were based on rumor and hearsay.
Judge's Scathing Dismissal
During the trial, the reckless use charges were dropped, and the Crown proceeded only on careless use charges. These were further reduced to two after the Crown conceded two charges were not viable. The judge dismissed all charges, expressing concerns about the credibility of police witnesses. 'A couple of the witnesses, in my view, left much to be desired in terms of their honesty,' the judge stated.
Manca's lawsuit seeks damages for the harm caused to his reputation and career. The case highlights ongoing issues within police disciplinary processes and the handling of internal complaints.
