High-ranking Durham cop caught speeding twice in two days regrets his actions

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A senior Durham cop says he “deeply” regrets “unlawfully speeding” twice in two days last spring – once through a school zone and a day later travelling 50 km/h over the posted limit.

Despite being caught at a speed that amounts to a stunt driving charge, the high-ranking cop was never ticketed. But he was recently docked 94 pay after a misconduct investigation.

Durham Regional Police Service released a statement from Deputy Chief Chris Kirkpatrick in an effort to show a “commitment to transparency.”

“On June 5th and 6th, I operated my police issued vehicle in a manner that would undermine public trust in policing; speeding without lawful excuse,” Kirkpatrick said in the statement. “While I may not have been ticketed, I immediately reported what transpired to the Chief of Police, who in turn reported it to the Durham Region Police Service Board (DRPSB).”

Kirkpatrick joined the DRPS in May, after serving as a Toronto Police officer for 14 years, and the speeding took place a month later.

“Pursuant to the CSPA, a misconduct investigation was referred by the DRPSB to the Peel Regional Police Service,” he said. “Just two days ago that investigative process concluded and I accepted the boards decision and full responsibility for my actions.”

“I received a substantial penalty commensurate with my rank, forfeiting 94 hours,” Kirkpatrick added.

The message also quoted Durham Regional Police Services Board Chairman Shaun Collier. 

Collier said in August that “all members of the DRPS are expected to be exemplary in their behaviour, and this is especially true of the leaders of the organization.”

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Kirkpatrick said he “deeply” regrets his actions and admits that he fell below the standard he set for himself.

“I hope this serves as a reminder to the DRPS that as leaders we are in fact held to a higher standard, are held accountable, and is a step towards the priority of building trust,” Kirkpatrick said.

“While members are not expected to comment publicly on their discipline matters, as Deputy Chief I felt it important to be transparent with each of you and maintain respect for the leadership of this organization,” he added.