Updated at 5:20 p.m. January 6, 2015
FREDERICTON – The arbitrator looking into the case of Const. Cherie Campbell said Tuesday that firing the officer was the only option for the Fredericton Police Force.
“A termination, in my view, is the only appropriate remedy to be imposed,” arbitrator Cedric L. Haines told Global News.
A media release from Fredericton Police Chief Leanne Fitch confirms Const. Campbell was terminated after a Police Act hearing and arbitration.
“I am confident in the process that has taken place and that the arbitrator made a fair decision,” the statement reads.
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A statement from the New Brunswick Police Commission said the termination was a result of “due process.”
“I do not believe that a reprimand, whether verbal or written, is an appropriate remedy to be imposed,” Haines said.
“I have no evidence nor do I believe that professional counselling or participation in a treatment program would be an appropriate response.”
Const. Campbell was arrested in Houlton, Maine after shoplifting $20 worth of cosmetics in Dec. 2014.
She is charged with violating the code of conduct after she attempted to have the security guard lie about the fact that she’d shoplifted. She is also accused of trying to have another officer keep the news of her arrest from Chief Fitch.
“A suspension without pay, for any length of time, or a reduction in rank would do nothing to restore the trust which she breached,” Haines added.
Campbell plans appeal
Speaking to media today Campbell and her lawyer announced their intention to appeal the arbitrator’s decision saying that the punishment does not fit the crime.
“There were many ranges available to the arbitrator for punishment including a demotion in rank, a suspension, reprimand and again a loss of rank,” said T.J. Burke, Campbell’s Lawyer.
In addition to announcing the appeal Campbell also discussed her disapproval for those in charge of her former workplace.
“I believe the present leadership at the Fredericton Police Force has created a difficult if not poisoned work environment for the police officers there,” she said.
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