Inquiry to look into ‘workplace concerns’ at Estevan Police Service

The Saskatchewan Police Commission has launched an inquiry into the Estevan Police Service.

In a media release Thursday, the Ministry of Justice said the inquiry will look into what it called “workplace concerns” at the police department.

“The inquiry will primarily consist of fact-finding interviews focused on workplace culture, health and well-being supports for police officers, the role and responsibilities of the Chief of Police and the Estevan Board of Police Commissioners, and what effect these factors may have on the quality of police services in Estevan,” the ministry’s release read.

In March, the city issued a statement in which it said “concerns” had been brought to its attention after the death March 5 of Const. Jay Pierson.

According to his obituary, Pierson had been diagnosed with PTSD in March of 2017 and had to “repeatedly fight to defend his diagnosis in order to receive WCB benefits which were essential to support his family.”

“Please know that the Board of Police Commissioners is committed to working closely with the membership along with the administration of the Estevan Police Service for the betterment of the organization and the city,” said the city’s statement, which was signed by Mayor Roy Ludwig.

“As we move forward, the Board of Police Commissioners is actively engaging with both the membership and administration to develop a full and complete understanding of the issues and concerns at hand.”

Paul Ladouceur resigned as Estevan’s police chief April 16. In a statement announcing his resignation, the city said he stepped down to pursue other opportunities.

Regina lawyer Aaron Fox has been appointed by the police commission to lead the inquiry. Saskatchewan’s Police Act says an inquiry can be held “into any matter that is related to the standard of policing and law enforcement provided within a municipality.”