The OPP is not proceeding to charges related to Mr. Lloyd Ferguson’s assault against myself on February 26, 2014 which occurred in the public foyer of Council Chambers at City Hall.
The OPP must weigh numerous factors in determining whether to prosecute offences and I agree with their decision that public interest is not best served by using court time and resources on this matter.
The OPP concluded that Mr. Ferguson’s actions were wrong and unjustified.
I wish to thank my fellow Hamiltonians for their support and both the Hamilton Police Service, and the Ontario Provincial Police for their professionalism.
Though I respect how these events have concluded, I do request that Council consider formal action to rescind former Integrity Commissioner Mr. Basse’s flawed report, a report that has been widely criticized , and a report that untruthfully maligns my character. I hope to work with staff to see this action taken.
Where these events might undermine public confidence in our civic government and civilian oversight of policing, increasing cynicism and disengagement, I implore the public to stay engaged with an inquisitive eye on City Hall.
My final message is thank everyone for your support. The strong support from the community is what enables me to continue my work.
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TPR Hamilton | Hamilton's Civic Affairs News Site (https://thepublicrecord.ca/2015/05/statement-regarding-conclusion-of-opp-investigation/)
This reflects deeply the reason you and we who watch the politicos of Hamilton, do so. The incident itself ofcourse and the response of protectionism, by slander, mis information and attack is standard fare. Your strength in following through and continuing to pursue your path in facilitating oversight accessible to all in our community, serves to strengthen our democracy and community. Good luck, with ya.
Well said Joey. I am unsatisfied with the decision but whatever, it is what it is. The bottom line for me is that Councillor Ferguson not only acted in a manner that was “wrong and unjustified” he has brought disrepute to the City Hall as a place where integrity and acceptable behaviour should reign. Serious damage has been done and its effects will linger. It concerns me than the councillor has not shown any sincere regret and meaningful apology to the citizens of Hamilton for his intemperate actions – what I had seen from him has been shallow and less than forthright.
Joey – you were assaulted and charges were not laid. Through it all, I have been impressed, in fact inspired, by your calmness and professionalism. I support you ensuring your name is cleared through your questioning of the slanted content of the Integrity Commissioner’s report on the matter. In addition, I want to thank you again for your tireless work to ensure residents are more informed and engaged in the actions of their city government. Kudos to you.
Now if Joey moved Lloyd there would be hell to pay by Joey. There is a double standard here!
Joey, I can’t escape the question of if public interest would have been served had the situation been reversed. We both know you would have been charged with assault and banned from city hall. I appreciate all that you do and respect how you’ve handled this situation.