York police deputy chief Thomas Carrique named OPP Commissioner

Carrique appointed following extended controversy surrounding province's highest policing role

Yorkregion.com
March 12, 2019
Jeremy Grimaldi

Deputy chief of York Regional Police Thomas Carrique has been named as the new OPP Commissioner, following an extended controversy surrounding the province's highest policing role.

Carrique, known for his professionalism with York Regional Police, will bring years of experience to the role. He has served as part of the York force's executive command, alongside Chief Eric Jolliffe and deputy chief André Crawford. Robertson Rouse was recently added as a third deputy.

Carrique, who became the deputy chief of administration in 2011, was expected by many to take over as chief of York Regional Police when Jolliffe retires at the end of the summer.

He has worked in a number of roles across the organization, including uniform patrol, criminal investigations and traffic.

An avid cyclist, Carrique frequently participates in charity rides and is an avid supported of Special Olympics.

Premier Doug Ford's friend and Toronto police Supt. Ron Taverner was handed the commissioner role before allegations of tampering in the process emerged.

Taverner rejoined the Toronto police and withdrew his name only five days ago.

Former OPP deputy chief Brad Blair has launched a wrongful dismissal lawsuit against the provincial government, saying he believes he was targeted for firing following his outspoken behaviour in the wake of the Taverner hiring.

Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services Sylvia Jones said the rank and file deserve "certainty and clarity."

"The Ontario Provincial Police has been without a permanent commissioner since Nov. 2, 2018. Deputy Chief Carrique will be a strong voice for the frontline officers we all depend on to keep our communities safe," Jones said.