The Early Resolution (ER) Program is a way for complainants and respondent officers to voluntarily resolve complaints in a quick and effective manner that encourages open communication. The goal of ER is to arrive at a resolution that is mutually satisfactory. Successful resolutions can be powerful learning opportunities that have lasting positive effects on participants.
If the complainant, officer(s), and police service consent to ER, a member from the police service’s Professional Standards office (or a senior officer) will contact the complainant to facilitate the resolution.
Facilitation could include:
Please note that a complaint can still proceed to investigation if an ER is unsuccessful.
If you are interested in Early Resolution simply answer yes under “I would consider early resolution for this matter*” on the complaint form.
Quick: ER is to be completed within 30 calendar days (up to 45 days with an extension).
Voluntary: All parties must consent to ER.
Neutral: The OIPRD and Professional Standards contacts are neutral parties in the process. They cannot provide advice or opinions.
Open Communication: The ER process aims to improve communication between the public and the police and provides the complainant a voice to help determine an outcome or agreement.
Accountable: Early Resolution Agreements are reviewed and approved by the OIPRD.
Confidential: All communications occurring in the context of the ER process are confidential and governed under s.26.1 and s. 95 of the Police Services Act.
Greater Satisfaction with the Complaint Process: Complainants can often gain a better understanding of policing and a feeling of empowerment as they can have an opportunity to express their views and/or potentially receive an explanation or apology
