Toronto Police Services Board asks for independent inspection after allegations of racism, antisemitism by former homicide head

A high profile former Toronto police officers is out with a new book about what he saw and experienced over more than three decades.

The Toronto Police Services Board Says it has asked for an independent inspection into allegations of antisemitism and “broader organizational cultural issues” at the Toronto Police Service after a retired homicide detective came forward with allegations of antisemitism and racism on the force.

Hank Idsinga, the former head of the Toronto police homicide unit, recently told CP24 that during his time on the force he personally witnessed incidents of antisemitism, anti-Black racism, and a culture where those who spoke up about problems faced repercussions.

In recent interviews, Idsinga suggested people should think twice before calling Toronto police for help if they are Jewish or Black.

He also said that those who spoke up about issues they saw, including officers drinking and driving on the job, were branded as “rats” and had their promotional opportunities limited.

“The Board has heard clearly from members of Toronto’s Jewish community that these concerns need to be examined independently and credibly,” TPS Board Chair Shelley Carroll said in a statement Friday.

“Residents should never have to question whether they’ll be treated fairly because of who they are or what community they belong to. People need confidence that policing in Toronto is professional, impartial, and free from bias.”

• READ MORE: ‘Afraid to speak’: Former Toronto homicide cop alleges antisemitism, racism within force

Carroll said the TPS Board has formally requested Ontario’s Inspectorate of Policing consider an “expedited inspection” relating to the recent allegations.

The board said it asked for Ontario’s Inspectorate of Policing to conduct the inspection because it is an independent policing oversight body with statutory authority to conduct inspections, compel information, and issue binding directions where necessary.

“The Inspectorate exists specifically to examine systemic policing concerns through an independent process grounded in expertise, accountability, and public confidence,” Carroll said in her statement. “That makes it the appropriate mechanism for this work.”

In a statement, Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw said the force takes the allegations seriously and will cooperate.

“The Toronto Police Service takes any allegation of antisemitism and racism extremely seriously. We will support the work of the Inspector General requested by the Toronto Police Service Board,” Demkiw said.

“As previously announced, I directed our Professional Standards Unit to investigate the recent allegations. Earlier this week, I also asked the Law Enforcement Complaints Agency (LECA) to review the allegations and determine whether further investigation is appropriate, consistent with its role under the Community Safety and Policing Act.”

He said TPS is “committed” to the wellness of its employees and respectful workplaces.