Toronto Police Inspector Joyce Schertzer has been temporarily demoted to the rank of staff sergeant for nine months following her interference in a collision investigation involving her nephew.
The decision, issued by retired OPP Superintendent Lisa Taylor during a disciplinary tribunal on Monday, stems from Schertzer’s actions on May 1, 2022, when her nephew crashed his pickup truck into a city-owned utility pole on Lake Shore Boulevard.
The tribunal revealed that Schertzer, who was on duty at the time, instructed an officer from her 11 Division to respond to the scene in 14 Division, bypassing the standard priority dispatch system. She also attended the collision site personally.
Tribunal documents noted that the investigation was expedited, with Schertzer’s nephew allowed to leave the scene within 10 minutes of speaking to the officer. This prevented investigators from fully assessing whether alcohol or other factors contributed to the crash.
Although no evidence of alcohol impairment was found, Taylor emphasized that the decision undermined public trust, as it appeared to show preferential treatment for a family member.
Adding to the controversy, Schertzer agreed to turn off her body-worn camera to hold a private conversation with the investigating officer. Taylor described this action as a “major deviation” from the ethical standards expected of a senior officer.
“The involvement of Inspector Schertzer negatively impacted the quality of the collision investigation,” Taylor stated in her written decision, noting that it caused reputational harm to the Toronto Police Service.
Schertzer was found guilty of two counts of professional misconduct. While she maintained there was no sign of alcohol impairment—citing clear eyes, steady speech, and no odor—Taylor criticized her failure to recognize the broader implications of her actions.
“Members of the public could reasonably conclude that friends and family of police officers receive preferential treatment,” Taylor wrote.
Schertzer’s exemplary 30-year career with the Toronto Police Service was highlighted as a mitigating factor. Letters of support from colleagues described her as a dedicated and positive member of the force, despite the scrutiny surrounding the case.
However, the tribunal noted her refusal to acknowledge any wrongdoing as an aggravating factor. “The incident caused reputational damage to the police service,” Taylor added.
Schertzer will return to her rank of inspector after serving her demotion period. Taylor commended Schertzer for continuing to work diligently and maintaining a positive attitude throughout the investigation.
“Despite the media scrutiny, she has held her head high and contributed positively to the Service,” Taylor wrote, acknowledging Schertzer’s resilience.
The tribunal concluded that while the misconduct was serious, it did not reflect her overall character or career achievements.