Toronto Police Officers Face Organized Crime Charges in Court Appearance
Two Toronto Police Service officers, alleged to be key figures in an organized crime operation involving drugs and corruption, made virtual court appearances on Thursday and were remanded into custody. The case has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and raised serious questions about internal integrity.
Court Proceedings and Charges
Constables Brian Da Costa, 43, and Timothy Barnhardt, 56, appeared via video from holding cells at York Regional Police. Both men, described as bearded and heavy-set while wearing hoodies, remained silent during the proceedings. Justice of the peace Walter Moniz imposed a standard publication ban on the proceedings at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre.
The officers are facing numerous serious charges:
- Brian Da Costa: Charged with bribery, obstruction of justice, and drug trafficking including exporting marijuana to Europe
- Timothy Barnhardt: Charged with accepting bribes and trafficking in cocaine, oxycodone, and other drugs
Both officers were held over until their special bail hearings can be scheduled, which are expected to be lengthy proceedings given the severity of the allegations.
Legal Representation and Investigation Details
The accused officers have retained experienced legal counsel familiar with police defense cases. Barnhardt is represented by lawyer Joanne Mulcahy, who has frequently defended police officers in previous cases. Da Costa has hired well-known lawyer Kim Schofield to handle his defense.
Investigators allege that Barnhardt unlawfully accessed police databases to obtain addresses that were later used in various criminal incidents, including:
- A foiled murder attempt
- Extortion cases
- Commercial robberies
- Shootings
This confidential information was allegedly shared with Da Costa and others connected to various criminal networks, according to police sources.
Broader Criminal Scheme Uncovered
Police investigations revealed an additional scheme allegedly led by Da Costa, where Toronto Police officers were planning to support illegal cannabis dispensaries by accepting bribes. The officers would then obstruct any enforcement actions against these establishments.
During the investigation, police seized a quantity of fentanyl, highlighting the dangerous nature of the alleged criminal activities. The case represents one of the most significant organized crime probes involving active police officers in recent Toronto history.
The allegations have prompted internal reviews within the Toronto Police Service and raised concerns about oversight mechanisms within law enforcement agencies. The case continues to develop as investigators pursue additional leads and evidence.
