The Toronto Police Service Board has taken a significant step forward by formally requesting an independent inspection into allegations of antisemitism within the force, moving beyond its initial stance that former inspector Hank Idsinga was merely promoting his book.
Board Calls for Independent Review
On Friday, board chair Councillor Shelley Carroll announced the request to Ontario's Inspectorate of Policing for an expedited inspection related to recent public allegations concerning antisemitism and broader organizational culture issues within the Toronto Police Service. This decision follows mounting pressure from community leaders and the Jewish community.
Carroll had previously expressed her abhorrence of antisemitism and pledged to take the matter seriously. Now, she has escalated the response by seeking an external review.
"The board has heard clearly from members of Toronto's Jewish community that these concerns need to be examined independently and credibly," Carroll stated. She emphasized that residents should never question whether they will be treated fairly based on their identity or community affiliation.
Background of the Allegations
In his memoir The High Road: Confessions of a Homicide Cop, Idsinga included a chapter highlighting what he described as anti-Jewish sentiment and anti-Black racism originating from senior ranks within the police service. Initially, the Toronto Police dismissed the allegations as part of a book promotion, sending detectives to Idsinga's home with a letter requesting an interview with Professional Standards—a request he declined, citing the failed system investigating itself.
B'nai Brith Canada's director of research and advocacy, Richard Robertson, had immediately called for a third-party probe, asserting that only an independent investigation would inspire confidence.
Details of the Request
The board's request to the Inspectorate includes several recommendations from community stakeholders: appointment of an external lead inspector, expedited timelines, and an examination of broader organizational culture and accountability issues where appropriate. Carroll stressed the need for confidentiality protections for participants, recommendations for corrective action, public reporting where legally permissible, and consideration of impacts on community trust.
Michelle Stock, vice-president for Ontario at the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, welcomed the decision, stating: "Public confidence in the Toronto Police Service depends on ensuring allegations of antisemitism are examined credibly, transparently, and without interference." She added that the Jewish community must remain informed throughout the process, officers must be able to raise concerns without fear of reprisal, and any recommendations must be meaningfully implemented.
Reaction from Idsinga
Upon hearing the news, Idsinga remarked, "Interesting," and expressed appreciation that Carroll is keeping on top of the matter. He noted that this approach is a better way to handle the issue than the original posture.
Carroll concluded: "The Inspectorate exists specifically to examine systemic policing concerns through an independent process grounded in expertise, accountability, and public confidence. That makes it the appropriate mechanism for this work."
Rooting out antisemites or racists at the top of the police service is vital work, and this independent inspection marks a crucial step toward restoring public trust.
