Policing the Police: Public Perceptions of Civilian Oversight in Canada

Abstract

We examine public perceptions of the police complaints system in Ontario, Canada, using results from a general population survey of Toronto residents. Most of our respondents have indicated that they would file a formal complaint if subject to police verbal abuse or brutality. Yet, a large proportion of these same respondents did not believe their complaint would be treated fairly. Consistent with the broader literature, these perceptions of unfair treatment are particularly widespread among Black respondents and those with low levels of confidence in local police. Despite decades of structural reforms, only few respondents indicated that they would report their complaint to a civilian police oversight agency explicitly tasked with reviewing police complaints. Regardless of racial background, most respondents nonetheless believe that police complaints should be investigated by independent (nonpolice) investigators. We conclude with a discussion of the recent legislative reform efforts that have taken place in the province.