The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) in southern Ontario was a toxic workplace where officials failed to adequately address harassment and management aggressively fought officers seeking mental health support, according to newly released records.

The findings by investigators are included in the Ontario Civilian Police Commission’s (OCPC) report into the workplace culture, policies and procedures of the DRPS and its board. The report and a summary of the document were obtained by CBC News through a freedom of information request.

Investigators substantiated allegations that "a poisoned work environment was created at the DRPS," according to the report. Workplace harassment investigations, though guided by “sound” policies, were marred by bias and shoddy record-keeping.

Peter Brauti

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