**Title: Ottawa Police Chief Addresses Misuse of Databases by Officers**
In a recent internal communication, Ottawa Police Chief Eric Stubbs issued a stern warning to officers regarding the inappropriate use of police databases to pursue personal relationships. In a seven-minute video shared with the entire force last month, Stubbs highlighted troubling behaviors that have emerged among some members of the police department.
Stubbs's comments came to light after CBC News obtained the recording, which has since gained significant attention. In the video, he stated that certain officers have been using police resources to look up women they encounter in everyday situations, such as coffee shops and gyms. He described instances where officers recorded license plate numbers and subsequently searched police databases for personal information about these women.
“We’ve seen members messaging vulnerable victims on calls that they’ve attended in an attempt to develop an intimate relationship,” Stubbs remarked, emphasizing the seriousness of the issue. He urged officers to “change your behavior now – or quit, leave,” making it clear that such conduct would not be tolerated within the department.
The Ottawa Police Service has faced scrutiny over the misuse of official databases, with Stubbs acknowledging that the problem is ongoing. He warned that failing to confront these behaviors would only perpetuate the issue, and he reaffirmed the force's commitment to addressing the misconduct. "While some may argue that we are not making progress, we will not stop trying," he stated during a press briefing.
The situation has drawn attention from local advocacy groups, with nine directors of sexual assault and support organizations in the Ottawa area sending a joint letter calling for a comprehensive and transparent response to the allegations. They expressed concerns about whether previous cases involving officers facing misconduct allegations had been adequately investigated.
The controversy surrounding the Ottawa Police Service is not isolated. Earlier this year, Constable Andrew Reesor was charged under Ontario’s policing law for allegedly conducting unauthorized searches of government databases between 2021 and 2024. Reports indicate that Reesor admitted to conducting searches involving women out of “curiosity” and “attraction.”
In addition to Reesor's case, the police department has disciplined another officer for improper database searches, and a separate officer has been charged with assault and criminal harassment. These incidents have raised questions about the oversight and accountability within the Ottawa Police Service.
Chief Stubbs's remarks and the subsequent reactions from community organizations underscore the need for ongoing dialogue and reform within law enforcement agencies to ensure that such misuse of power is addressed effectively. As the Ottawa Police Service navigates these challenges, the focus remains on restoring public trust and maintaining the integrity of the force.