Supt. Ronald S. van Straalen, Regional Commander, OPP North West Region
Dear editor:
Thank you for the opportunity to provide context to the March 9 letter to the editor, headlined “You decide,” and correct the record.
Firstly, let me say the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) truly understands and appreciates the circumstances that lead individuals to seek legal means to medically manage pain and reduce suffering caused by serious illness and major injuries.
Our heart goes out to them, and the family members and friends who help them cope with emotionally trying circumstances.
The professional services provided by members of the OPP are of the highest standards and a benchmark in law enforcement in North America. We make every effort to ensure our policies and procedures are open and accountable to the people in the communities we serve throughout Ontario.
The decision to commence and conduct any investigation is not done in isolation and without compassion, nor is the responsibility to act on our public safety mandate taken lightly.
The OPP stands behind the actions of its officers and the information distributed on our media release.
The OPP respects the jurisdiction of the courts to grant search warrants based on the grounds provided by police and the rights of individuals to have their charges heard by the courts.
Since this matter is currently before the courts, we must let that process take place and are unable to engage in further public discussion. But we welcome the opportunity to meet with anyone who has questions or concerns about their dealings with the OPP directly.
Signed,
Supt. Ronald S. van Straalen,
Regional Commander,
OPP North West Region
