An independent Hearing Officer appointed by the Saskatchewan Police Commission has rendered a decision in the appeal against dismissal by Robert Power. The decision was rendered on November 21, 2014. The Hearing Officer’s decision allows the appeal. In other words, the Hearing Officer’s decision reinstates Robert Power as a member of the Regina Police Service, effective May 1, 2014. The Hearing Officer decision can be viewed at: http://www.justice.gov.sk.ca/Default.aspx?DN=b63ca4d5-e062-4fb1-96bc-6bd09fcc8707 .
It should be noted that the reinstatement comes with a significant sanction against Mr. Power:
• There is a suspension, without pay or benefits, for a period of 13 months;
• Power will be under close supervision (in effect, like a job probation period) for a further 18 months; and
• Power must participate in ethics education and training as directed by the Chief.
The 13-month suspension has, effectively, been served, which means Constable Power will be returning to work at the Regina Police Service this week.
Constable Power is not entitled to salary or benefits during the period of his suspension. He is entitled to back pay from May 1, 2014 to the present day (seven months) less any money he earned from other employment during that seven months. He will be placed on administrative duties, inside Headquarters, upon his return.
“It was my decision, as Chief of Police, to dismiss Rob Power and I believed it to be the appropriate decision, in the best interests of our Service and our community,” said Chief Troy Hagen. “That said, everything we do in policing is subject to oversight…or even challenge. The Saskatchewan Police Commission’s Hearing Officer has allowed Mr. Power’s appeal and we respect that decision.”
