The Ottawa Police Association is examining whether they'll launch a complaint over the comments made by a judge who ruled Stacy Bonds' treatment by Ottawa police was an "indignity to a human being."
In an email sent to the union's membership on Tuesday, the president of the association said the union is considering how to move forward with the issue.
"With the assistance of Nelligan O'Brien Payne (legal firm) we are examining the possibility of launching a complaint into the comments made by Justice Lajoie, which I believe has led to this negative press and the wedge it has driven between us and the community we serve faithfully day in and day out," Steve Boucher said in the email, which was obtained by CTV Ottawa.
Lajoie threw out charges against Bonds in October after watching a video of her treatment in the cell block at Ottawa police headquarters.
The video shows Bonds struggling with a group of officers. She is kneed in the back, pinned to the ground, and stripped of her shirt and bra.
The case has spawned hundreds of public complaints. The police chief has responded by ordering a review of detention policies. He has also assigned a staff sergeant to review any other historical incidents that involve excessive force by police.
Chief Vern White has also advised the public that the Bonds case is not a reflection of the entire police force.
"It's unfair to hold those to account who shouldn't be for the actions of others," he told reporters at a media conference on Thursday.
However, Boucher says public criticism is already hurting the force -- reputations have been ruined and it could take years for police to regain public confidence. Meantime, Boucher is asking his members to support each other.
"These are the darkest days I have seen in my 17 years with OPS. Circle the wagons and look after each other as we continue to navigate these most troubled of times," he said.
