FANTINO FEELS SCANDAL ISOLATED

Toronto Police Chief Julian Fantino said while the arrest of six former drug
cops is "regrettable," it is "isolated and confined" and the public should
have faith in his officers. Speaking of the need to uphold "core values"
that are implicit with being a police officer, Fantino said he is "totally
committed to having an ethical and excellent police service."

He said while he would rather have had a different outcome from the RCMP-led
probe he initiated two years ago, the "independent, extremely exhaustive and
very thorough" review should "inspire continued public confidence in the
Toronto Police Service.

"I also draw some comfort in the belief that this situation is an isolated
one, and not reflective of the hard-working and dedicated professionals that
are the heart of this organization."

Fantino made his remarks at a media briefing held yesterday.

He said when he was sworn in as Chief of Police in Toronto four years ago,
he vowed that "integrity, diligence and tolerance would characterize my time
in office.

"I will not allow the reputation of this great organization to be
compromised by any of our members, who may have violated our core values,"
he said.

Fantino said that retired Justice George Ferguson has completed an extensive
and independent review of the process and procedures of the "specialized
units" like the drug squad. "We have implemented many recommendations, while
others are under review," Fantino said.