DRUG-STEALING OFFICER TO LEARN FATE TODAY

Constable Who Took Crack From Suspects Fights To Keep His Job

An Ottawa police constable who admitted stealing crack cocaine from
suspects and the evidence locker to smoke it himself learns today if
he will keep his job.

Const. Kevin Hall was suspended with pay in December 2005 after being
charged with nine offences under the Police Services Act.

He pleaded guilty to eight charges -- five counts of discreditable
conduct, two counts of corrupt practice and one of neglect of duty --
in May.

A ninth charge, for discreditable conduct, was withdrawn as part of a
plea agreement.

Const. Hall, 43, admitted to seizing crack cocaine from a suspect and
keeping it. He also stole crack cocaine from an evidence envelope as
well as drugs that were to be destroyed. He also bought the drug while
on and off duty.

He has not been criminally charged.

During submissions in September, lawyers for the police argued that
Const. Hall is no longer fit to be a police officer after he "grossly
abused" his oath to respect the law and maintain high ethical standards.

They also argued he would have no credibility in court and could no
longer be trusted in any position within the department.

But Const. Hall's lawyer, Steven Welchner, argued firing his client
would be discriminatory because the drug addiction from which he is
recovering is a disability.

Const. Hall twice sought counselling from a rehabilitation centre,
which showed his willingness to seek treatment and beat his addictions
to cocaine, alcohol and marijuana, Mr. Welchner said. He has been
drug-free since October 2005.

Mr. Welchner argued Const. Hall should be demoted from first-class to
fourth-class constable, the lowest rank, work inside the police
station without a firearm for at least a year and submit to drug tests.

Hearing officer Terence Kelly will decide Const. Hall's fate.