MASSIVE PROBE COSTS $3M-PLUS

The RCMP-led probe into alleged Toronto Police drug squad wrongdoing
was initiated by Police Chief Julian Fantino amid allegations of theft
of drugs and cash. Led by RCMP Chief Superintendent John Neily, the
25-man probe has lasted more than two years and has cost more than $3
million.

Sources say the arrest of up to 12 Toronto Police officers on either
criminal or Police Services Act charges is imminent.

The probe centres mainly on allegations against one team in the
four-team Central Field Command drug squad.

Ned Maodus, 40, yesterday became the second Toronto drug officer
charged by the task force.

Det. Rob Kelly, 38, an undercover drug officer with the North West
Field Command, has pleaded guilty to cocaine possession in an
unrelated probe. Kelly faces sentencing later this month.

The pending court cases will likely see Canadian policing's
biggest-ever corruption scandal. The fallout will have far-reaching
ramifications for police, the courts and the judiciary, sources say.