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A police officer in York Region has been charged with several offenses following an internal investigation by the York Regional Police Professional Standards Bureau.
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The investigation began after other officers came forward to a supervisor with “information and concerns about the conduct of another member.”
In October 2021, police say an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in Markham. The officer removed the driver and passenger from the vehicle and conducted a search. During the search, police say the officer located a quantity of cocaine in a purse belonging to the passenger.
According to police, the officer claimed after the fact that he had observed cannabis and cocaine in the vehicle and that was the reason for the search. No physical evidence or information from other officers at the stop confirmed the presence of cocaine or cannabis prior to the search.
Jordan Nesbitt, 24, of Durham Region, faces charges of fabrication of evidence, obstruction of justice and breach of trust.
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The investigation is ongoing.
“I am deeply disappointed by this violation of the public trust, however, I am very proud of and commend those officers who came forward to report their concerns to their supervisors,” said York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween. “We rely on all members to hold themselves and their peers to the highest standard, in keeping with our values, one of which is courage. This is our value statement. Courage: We have the moral strength to stand up and to do what is right. These officers did just that.
“As a result, this officer is now facing serious criminal charges and will be held accountable for his actions,” MacSween added. “Those actions, in no way, are a reflection of the dedicated and hard-working members of York Regional Police, who keep our community safe every day.”
The accused has been a member of York Regional Police since 2019. He has been suspended with pay.