Stacy Clarke Demoted Amid Police Cheating Scandal

Stacy Clarke, Toronto's first Black female police superintendent, has been demoted to the rank of inspector for two years after admitting to her involvement in a 2021 corruption scandal aimed at helping Black officers cheat in the promotion process. A tribunal found that Clarke played a 'lead role' in the misconduct, which included leaking confidential interview questions to six Black candidates, and emphasized that honesty and integrity are mandatory traits for police officers. Clarke expressed her disappointment and sadness regarding the ruling, stating she acted out of a desire to address systemic racism within the force. Despite her previous commendable career, her actions were deemed as undermining public trust in the police service. The local Black community has expressed concern that her punishment may reflect systemic racism within policing, asserting that disproportionate discipline could damage relationships between police and the community. Clarke will have the opportunity to reapply for her former rank after serving her demotion period.