The Sarnia Police Services Board has confirmed an external investigation is underway into workplace harassment allegations involving Chief Derek Davis, Deputy Chief Ron Hansen, and a civilian member of the service. On June 17, 2026, the board released a public statement acknowledging the public’s interest but said it cannot share specifics to protect privacy and the integrity of the investigation.
Chief Davis was suspended with pay on May 19, 2026, after a harassment complaint was received. The board called it a standard procedure that does not imply any wrongdoing. Then on June 8, Deputy Chief Hansen and a civilian employee were also suspended as more people came forward. Board chair Kelly Ash said multiple individuals have provided information during the investigation, which led to the additional suspensions.
The board has hired Marshall Workplace Law, a Toronto-based firm, to handle the review independently. It also brought in Johnstone & Johnstone LLP as legal counsel for Police Services Act matters. Provincial watchdogs, including the Inspectorate of Policing and the Law Enforcement Complaints Agency, are aware of the situation and are monitoring it.
Mike Federico, a former Toronto deputy chief with 45 years of experience, started as interim chief on June 8, earlier than planned. The board said the early start was needed after the weekend’s events, given that most senior leaders are now suspended. Mayor Mike Bradley has raised questions about whether the province is taking a stronger role in running the service. He also noted the financial impact: Davis and Hansen were paid about $500,000 combined in 2025, while Federico is now being paid a chief’s salary on top of that.
The investigation comes during a rocky period for Sarnia police leadership. In April, Chief Davis launched a $1.5 million defamation lawsuit against The Sarnia Journal and its owner Nathan Colquhoun. The board initially said it would cover his legal fees, but reversed that on May 27 after a review of his contract. Davis permanently dropped the lawsuit on June 9.
Board chair Kelly Ash stressed that the suspensions are not findings of misconduct and that the board is committed to a fair process. The investigation is ongoing, and any outcomes may lead to further leadership changes at the Sarnia Police Service.
