Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow stated on Tuesday that Police Chief Myron Dimkew faces a substantial challenge in rebuilding public confidence following recent developments involving three Toronto Police officers. The officers have been charged in connection with an alleged sexual assault incident in Barcelona.
Speaking in Toronto, Chow emphasized the critical importance of public trust in law enforcement. She noted that Dimkew has an obligation to identify and address any officers who may have engaged in misconduct, including serious federal offenses.
The Toronto Police Service confirmed on Monday that three of its members are facing serious allegations, though specific charges and names were not initially disclosed. The officers were off duty at the time of the alleged incident and have been or will be suspended pending the outcome of the legal proceedings.
Details of the Charges
According to law enforcement sources, the charged officers are Constable Evan Glennie, Rich Rand, and Calgar Yigit. Only Glennie faces a sexual assault charge and remains in Spain, though he is expected to return to Canada soon. Sources indicate the trio was in Barcelona for a soccer tournament with other officers.
Spanish news outlet Europa Press reported that the three Canadians were arrested for the alleged sexual assault of a female prostitute in a taxi in the Ciutat Vella neighborhood. The report states that one officer is accused of sexual assault, another of striking the woman in the face as she resisted, and the third of being the vehicle's co-pilot. The woman required medical assistance after the incident.
Police Response and Suspensions
Toronto Police spokesperson Stephanie Sayer confirmed the seriousness of the allegations but declined to specify charges. Upon returning to Canada, one officer was immediately suspended, with the other two to be suspended upon their arrival in the coming days. The service stated it cannot comment further as the matters are before the courts.
This incident adds to a challenging year for the Toronto Police Service. In February, Project South, an organized crime and corruption investigation led by York Regional Police, resulted in charges against ten current and former Toronto Police officers. Additionally, last week, the Toronto Police Service Board called for an independent inspection into allegations of antisemitism within the force, as outlined in former inspector Hank Idsinga's memoir.
