ONLY INDEPENDENT INQUIRY CAN REGAIN PUBLIC TRUST

Public confidence in the police is one of the cornerstones of
democracy. So is the integrity of the evidence police present in our
courts.

That's why it's particularly disturbing to have a three-year member of
the Vancouver Police Department under investigation for lying under
oath in a criminal trial.

And it's why, contrary to the position of Solicitor-General Rich
Coleman, we believe it's time for a public inquiry (perhaps by an
out-of-province judge) into what appears to be a pattern of wrongdoing
and misconduct within the VPD.

No fair-minded person would argue that our law enforcers have a
difficult job to do, often under trying circumstances.

However, it doesn't excuse or justify the misconduct, alleged
brutality and perjury of some officers.

The public has every reason to be shocked by the revelations that a
junior constable was recently placed on paid administrative leave
pending an investigation into allegations of perjury, stealing
evidence and withholding information about excessive force by other
officers.

His "confession" spilled out when he applied for a job with Saanich
police. His partner, a 10-year VPD member is also under
investigation.

These revelations join a growing list of allegations of police
misconduct which, combined, rock the public's confidence in the VPD.

Police Chief Jamie Graham moved quickly Saturday to downplay this
latest public relations nightmare. He dismissed concerns of a
widespread problem.

"The actions ... are isolated cases that have come to our attention
and we're trying to deal with them as best we can," he said.

But Province reporter Adrienne Tanner has documented many others: Six
officers were suspended earlier this year and are now awaiting
criminal trial, for allegedly beating three suspected drug dealers in
Stanley Park. And a probe has been launched into 50 charges of
misconduct against police in the Downtown Eastside. In addition,
members have been accused of covering up for other officers in two
police-related deaths.

It's why an external probe, possibly one conducted by a special
prosecutor or a retired judge, is a must to rebuild the public's
trust. Coleman must re-think his position.

What do you think? Leave a brief comment, name and town at:
604-605-2029, fax: 604-605-2099 or e-mail: provletters@png.canwest.com