The Fredericton Police Department has seen its share of controversy recently, with several officers facing charges for various offences.
Crime within the force is a hot-button topic, but it may not be as common as people think, according to a criminology professor at a local university.
READ MORE: Fredericton police chief, mayor stand by police force through controversies
“The way in which they are dealt with seems to be a tad more public, more open and that may give the impression there are many cases,” said Jean Sauvageau, who works at St. Thomas University. “But maybe there are not that many but they are just dealt with in a more public fashion.”
The New Brunswick Police Commission is also looking into a complaint against Fredericton Police Chief Leanne Fitch.
While the origin of the complaint is unknown, Sauvageau said the strong approach Fitch is taking to clean up the department could be difficult for the officers.
With the infractions casting a shadow over the police department, Sauvageau said public opinion is bound to be swayed, although it doesn’t necessarily have to be solely negative.
“Either it does begin to weaken the public confidence in the police because of the number and type of occurrences, or taken another way, it could be seen that the chief is taking bold action.”
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