November 2, 2024
Statement from Chief Paul VandeGraaf
Re: Response to an article published in Today’s Northumberland.
I am dismayed that Today’s Northumberland made the decision to publish an article, referencing an anonymous letter with unverified allegations and gross generalizations about the Cobourg Police Service. This was irresponsible and done knowing the damage it would cause, including unnecessary stress and hardship on the police service members, the very people who get up every day, ready to serve the community with professionalism, compassion, and dedication. We welcome an independent and thorough review of the anonymous and unverified allegations.
Public trust, transparency, and accountability are at the core of the police service. If these allegations were brought to our attention, we would ensure that the matter was fully and thoroughly investigated through the Inspector General’s Office. I spoke with the Cobourg Police Association, and members of the Cobourg Police Service Board, and we intend to deliberate our next steps. As the published article references allegations of misconduct, we will not make any further statements.
I can assure the community that I stand behind my words that trust, transparency, and accountability are our priorities.
Quote from Rich Ferguson, President of the Cobourg Police Association
“As President of the Cobourg Police Association, I am deeply disappointed by the recent article published by Today’s Northumberland. The allegations presented are not only unverified but also cast a shadow over the hard work and dedication of our members. The Association is proud of its open, positive, and collaborative relationship with Chief VandeGraaf.
Our priority remains the well-being of our members and the trust of the community we serve. We thank the community for supporting our members, sworn and civilian, as they continue to perform their duties under these challenging circumstances.”
Quote from Lisa Munday, President of the Cobourg Police Senior Officers Association
“We are aware of the article published on November 2, 2024, by Today’s Northumberland, which includes anonymous and unverified allegations of misconduct within the Cobourg Police Service.
As President of the Cobourg Police Senior Officers Association, I echo the comments made by Chief VandeGraaf and the President of the Cobourg Police Association, Rich Ferguson. I am deeply disappointed at how these anonymous claims were so carelessly published.
We understand the impact such allegations can have on the trust and confidence of the public and the members of the police service. Our priority is to maintain the integrity of our service through transparency and accountability. We are committed to working collaboratively with Chief VandeGraaf and the Cobourg Police Service Board in any appropriate next steps.
We want to express our unwavering support for the dedicated members of our service who perform important and impactful work in our community every day. Their commitment to serving the public is invaluable, and we stand by them as we navigate this situation.”