OPPA Executive Officer of Pension & Benefits, Lisa Hillstrom, joins the 10-5 Podcast for the sixth episode in our Retirement Planning Series to discuss pensions and retirement planning. This includes the different unreduced retirement provisions available to members, how a pension is calculated, and retirement planning tools available through the Ontario Pension Board.
The Ontario Pension Board can be reached at 1-800-668-6203, clientservice@opb.ca or visit their website at OPB.ca.
This episode of the 10-5 podcast is produced and hosted by Scott Mills and Joshua Jutras.
If you have any questions about this episode of the 10-5 Podcast, please email us at communications@oppa.ca
OPP Suicide Memorial at OPP General Headquarters in Orillia, Ontario, Canada
The OPP Association is grateful that the Ontario Provincial Police has built the first memorial in Canada dedicated to our members who have died by suicide. OPPA President Rob Stinson and former OPPA Director Harold Coffin were honoured to be in attendance at the official unveiling in August, 2021 at OPP General Headquarters in Orillia.
ince 1989, forty active and retired members of the Ontario Provincial Police have died by suicide. This number includes thirty-eight uniform members and two civilian members. Twenty-five were active members and fourteen were retired.
“It is important to recognize all citizens who have died by suicide. Trauma is not limited to police, military and first responders. The issue of suicide affects all of us. I wish to acknowledge all of our OPP police officers, civilian members and retirees who have died by suicide. We acknowledge that they did valuable and often unacknowledged heroic work. Much of that work led to them experiencing trauma and was a contributing factor in their untimely deaths. I would like to acknowledge the survivors and your pain that you endure daily.” stated OPPA President Rob Stinson.
Harold had been involved on behalf of the OPPA, prior to his retirement, on the organizing committee to build the Suicide Memorial. The committee was led by OPP Commissioner Carrique. Harold was contacted for this story and stated he was honoured to be a small part of getting this done for the families. Harold added that it was very nice to get families of line of police duty deaths together with families who lost their loved ones to suicide, and come to an understanding on how to honour both.
“On the day of the unveiling, it was especially touching for us to be there with Sarah Routhier and Dilnaz Garda, both who have tirelessly advocated to honour and remember our members who died “because of the line of duty”, said Coffin.
After the suicide deaths of Sarah’s husband OPP Sergeant Sylvain Routhier, and Dilnaz’s brother, Toronto Police Service Constable Darius Garda, both women have been tireless advocates for the creation of the OPP Suicide Memorial, and encouraging other organizations to do the same.
The OPP Association is proud of the Encompas Mental Health Wellness Program launched in 2019, a collaborative effort led by then OPPA President Rob Jamieson. The program is a 24/7 mental health support to help our OPP members with maintaining their mental health by connecting our eligible members and their families to professional counsellors. To date the use of the program is in the thousands.
The OPP Healthy Workplace Team also offers professional psychologists and peer support networks for our members that we are very grateful for. Together the OPP and the OPP Association want to keep breaking down that stigma and encouraging our members to seek help before we have tragic situations.”
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this memorial.
The below video released by the OPP explains the planning and construction of the new Memorial.
For reference, the following is the official news release issued by the OPP on Friday October 15, 2021.
OPP BUILDS FIRST MEMORIAL IN CANADA DEDICATED TO OFFICERS WHO HAVE DIED BY SUICIDE
(ORILLIA, ON)
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has completed construction of its new suicide memorial, located outside at the OPP General Headquarters (GHQ) in Orillia. The memorial is open to the public and can be accessed from the main parking lot at the front of GHQ.
With this memorial, the OPP is honouring the lives of its officers who have died by suicide. The memorial recognizes that, while these officers did not die in the line of duty, the difficulties they experienced leading to their deaths are often related to their duty as law enforcement members. This is recognized by the term “because of duty death,” originally coined by Canada Beyond the Blue president, Dilnaz Garda.
With the memorial located outside, anyone can visit and do so quietly and with privacy. The memorial’s location also stands as a reminder to all, of the organization’s commitment to breaking down the barriers that prevent those struggling with their mental health from accessing the care and services they need to recover.
In addition to the outdoor memorial, the OPP will recognize its members who have died by suicide with a wall of engraved plaques displayed indoors at GHQ. Family, friends and colleagues can submit names to be added to the memorial wall. Upon receipt of a submission from someone other than a direct family member, best efforts will be made to follow-up with families through the submitter to ensure that the name being added will not cause hardship to any surviving family.
Historically, the OPP has not tracked suicide deaths and there is a limited record of how many OPP members have been lost to suicide since 1909. As well, some families, for their own reasons, may not want their family member’s name included on the memorial wall. This memorial will not be a complete list of all OPP members who have died by suicide and a name not appearing on the memorial does not minimize the loss of a member in any way.
These memorials are about OPP members who have lost their lives to suicide, and the acknowledgement of, and healing for, their families and friends.
“After speaking with families of officers who had died by suicide, it was evident that we needed a way to recognize and remember the significant contribution these officers made to our communities and our province. This memorial is a testament to our members’ dedication to duty each and every day. It’s a testament to those who tragically died by suicide, but served our organization, our communities and our province with pride, professionalism and honour.” – OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique
“Police personnel are among the professionals most likely to be exposed to occupational stress situations, all while protecting our communities. They often put themselves in harm’s way and experience incidents that most of us will never have to face. This memorial honours the members whose lives have been tragically lost and serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining our mental health the same way we maintain our physical health. Our government has made mental health a priority, and we will continue providing our heroes in blue with the mental health and well-being supports they need to recover from trauma and distress.” – Solicitor General Sylvia Jones
“Over the past few years, I’ve had the honour of meeting many dedicated women and men that put on a uniform to serve and protect the people of Ontario. We know that work-related complex trauma and PTSD affect our first responders every day, and we’re constantly reminded of the difficulty of wearing a uniform when going to work. This new memorial – the first of its kind in Canada – will be a much-needed and safe place for colleagues, friends and family to remember their loved ones. Our government stands shoulder-to-shoulder with our dedicated policing heroes, and we will always ensure that we prioritize their health and well-being.” – Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Michael Tibollo
To submit a name for the suicide memorial wall, please download and complete the attached submission form. For more information about the OPP Suicide Memorial or the submission process, please call 1-844-677-9409 or email OPPHealth@opp.ca.
To read the OPP article and view the video commemoration of the planning and construction of the new outdoor memorial, visit opp.ca/news.
Photos provided by Provincial Constable Jason Mann.
Ontario Provincial Police Association President Rob Stinson was honoured to accompany family and friends of fallen officers, the Ontario Minister of Transportation, Caroline Mulroney, Parliamentary Assistant to the Solicitor General Christine Hogarth, OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique, and fellow members at a bridges dedication cermony in the Trenton/Belleville area on Thursday October 14, 2021. The bridges, located in the Trenton area, have been officially dedicated in memory of Constable Blair Campbell Brown, Constable Mark L. Houlden and Constable James Lynn Begbie.
“We thank the Ontario Government for honouring the memory of our police officers who have died in the line of duty by the naming of bridges in memory of our members who paid the ultimate sacrifice. These bridge dedications ensure the service and sacrifice in the line of duty of our members will never be forgotten. This is important to their families, friends, colleagues, and the entire community. They are our Heroes In Life, Not Death,” Stinson said.
“These constables served and protected our communities and this bridge dedication helps honour their courageous and noble dedication to the Ontario Provincial Police and the people of Ontario,” said Commissioner Carrique.
“We honour and pay tribute to the dedication of Constable Brown, Constable Houlden and Constable Begbie, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” said Minister Mulroney.
“These bridges in the Trenton area will now serve as a lasting tribute for three of our fallen heroes. Ontario’s police officers put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our families and communities safe. These bridge dedications are a tribute to their bravery, selflessness and commitment to the safety and well-being of others,” said Christine Hogarth.
Constable Brown, age 29, died in a motor vehicle collision while transporting a prisoner from Peterborough on June 27, 1931. He previously worked for the Canadian Pacific Railway Police before being appointed as Traffic Officer for the then Trenton Police. At the time of his death, Brown was survived by his wife and two young sons.
Constable Mark L. Houlden, age 37, died on July 29, 1970 while responding to a domestic complaint with another officer. A physical altercation took place and he collapsed in the line of duty while protecting others. He is survived by his two children Brad and Lore.
Constable James Lynn Begbie was returning from firearms training when his motorcycle left the roadway. He died on June 22, 1978 from his injuries and at the time of his death was survived by his wife.
Memorial signs with each officer’s name and police service crest have been posted at each side of the bridge, that honours them.
Spouse Survivors Brenda Orr, Kim Coffin, Heather Pham, Shelley Atkinson and Christine Russell
at dedication of the 133rd defebrillator donation by Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund
in memory of Sergeant Ryan Russell October 12, 2021 in Toronto.
Donation 133! Sgt Ryan Russell was remembered today in front of so many who cared for him. @TorontoPolice @TPAca @OPPAssociation @PoliceAssocON @CPPOM @thecoffeecop pic.twitter.com/hHitili5qS
— Dave Mounsey Fund (@DaveMounseyFund) October 12, 2021
The 133rd Life Saving Defibrillator Donation by the Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund was dedicated in memory of Sergeant Ryan Russell on a beautiful, sunny, fall morning Monday October 12, 2021 at the Ryan Russell Parkette in Toronto, a short distance from where Toronto Police Sergeant Ryan Russell was killed in the line of duty on January 12, 2011.
The Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund is dedicated to the donation of life-saving defibrillators to public and private buildings and mobile in vehicles in the name of fallen Law Enforcement, Fire, EMS and Military members who have died in the line of duty.
Christine Russell, the widow of Sergeant Russell, was present, along with spouse survivors of line of duty police deaths Heather Pham, Kim Coffin, Shelley Atkinson and Brenda Orr. The women were all dressed in bright red hoodies for the ceremony. The women departed afterwards in an RV on a 10 day “East Coast Road Trip”, where they will be connecting with the spouses of police officers who have died in the line of duty along the route.
OPP Association President Rob Stinson and OPPA Director Mike Adair (also the Vice President of the Ontario Police Memorial Foundation) both attended the event, along with the President of the OPMF Jason Tomlinson, and a number of Toronto Police Service members.
“The Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund’s donation of defibrillators have saved three lives and now made 133 donations. The Dave Mounsey Fund is a tremendous group of individuals who are making a difference for many people. The Memorial Fund is helping families of fallen officers, and improving the safetey of our communities. All invovled in the Dave Mounsey Fund are to be commended. The widows of our fallen officers supporting each other was heartwarming to see today.” Stinson said.
Mike Adair echoed President Stinson’s sentiments, and added his thanks to OPP Provincial Constable Patrick Armstrong who has worked tirelessly over the years to honour his coach officer, Dave Mounsey by starting the Dave Mounsey Memorial Foundation in 2009, and continuing on the work today.
For anyone who wishes to make a financial donation to the Dave Mounsey Memorial Foundation, donations may be sent to the DMMF directly at: PO Box 153. Zurich ON N0M 2T0.
The Foundation also promotes a ‘Line of Duty’ Hosta, which is an officially registered hosta and available only at Hosta Choice. It was created in memory of PCP Paul Patterson, killed in the line of duty in 2007. For each Line of Duty Hosta sold, Hosta Choice will donate $20 to the DMMF.
join spouses of police officers who died in the line of duty at the 133rd defibrillator donation of The Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund in Toronto October 12, 2021
and OPP Officer & Founder of Dave Mounsey Memorial Foundation Patrick Armstrong at the
dedication of the 133rd defibrillator donation in memory of Sergeant Ryan Russell Oct 12, 2021 in Toronto.
Click on image to access 24/7 mental health services for OPP Association members and their families.
Sunday October 10, 2021 is Thanksgiving Weekend in Canada, and is World Mental Health Day worldwide.
The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.
The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.Mental health is an important component of whole person wellness. At some point in our lives, each one of us will experience a mental health challenge whether personally or through someone we know.
Due to the nature of police work, our active and retired police officers and civilian members are at a higher risk of developing a mental health challenge, and are less likely to report these issues due to fear of stigma surrounding mental health.
The Encompas Mental Health Wellness Program provides OPPA members with a comprehensive approach with timely access to confidential, effective and safe mental health support. To learn more about the program, please visit EncompasCare.ca or call
Encompas Mental Health Wellness Program’s Louise and Alana at Quinte Classic Golf Tournament 2021
Members of the the Encompas Mental Health Wellness Program have a booth at the Sylvain Routhier Memorial Foundation Quinte Classic Golf Tournament Friday October 8, 2021 at Black Bear Ridge Golf Course in Belleville, Ontario.
The OPP Association is grateful of the efforts of organizers, sponsors and attendees supporting the golf tournament today. It is heartwarming to see our members and their families being the focus of support. Special thank you to Sarah Routhier-Clark, who continues to work tirelessy to help our members along the road to mental wellness.
We urge any of our members to reach out 24/7 by calling 1-866-794-9117 or online at EncompasCare.ca. Nobody is alone.
The following is reproduced from the “About” section of the Sylvain Routhier Memorial Foundation website.
“On July 31st, 2018 after a brief battle with a mental illness, OPP Sergeant Sylvain “Roots” Routhier, age 37, took his own life. Sylvain was an incredible father, husband and police officer. Sylvain’s passing has greatly affected his family, friends, community and many first responders. This foundation was created by those family and friends to help raise awareness about mental health and the stigma that surrounds it.
Our hope is to prevent this from happening to other families through fundraising efforts which will:
Support families and children whose parents have been victims of PTSD related deaths
• Support first responders in need who are suffering from PTSD who will benefit from otherwise inaccessible programs
• Support for bursaries to aid deserving students in their studies related to trauma support of first responders, or to pursue careers as first responders.”
October is Cyber Security Awareness Month in Canada and Detective Sergeant Vern Crowley joins the 10-5 Podcast to talk about the Ontario Provincial Police’s (OPP) Cyber Crime Investigative Unit, including the composition of the Unit, what types of crimes the Unit investigates (cybercrimes vs cyber enabled crimes), trends in cyber security investigations, prevention, resources for the public and tips on securing your cell phone and personal computer.
For additional information on Cyber Security Awareness Month and “Get Cyber Safe,” please visit the following:
“Get Cyber Safe” official website of the Government of Canada.
Canadian Centre for Cyber Security
Cyber Security Ontario Learning Portal
United States Government’s Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency
Online fraud reporting: Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website, and by calling 1-888-495-8501.
This episode of the 10-5 podcast is produced and hosted by Scott Mills and Joshua Jutras.
Music – “Line of Fire” by Jason Shaw available at Audionautix.com and used under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
If you have any questions about this episode of the 10-5 Podcast, please email us at communications@oppa.ca
Our thoughts are with our OPP officer dragged by a vehicle, and the members involved to apprehend the suspect, in Simcoe, Norfolk County on Oct 5/2021. Three police vehicles were damaged. Thankfully our member was treated and released from hospital.
Our thoughts are with our OPP officer dragged by a vehicle, and the members involved to apprehend the suspect, in Simcoe, Norfolk County on Oct 5/2021. Three police vehicles were damaged. Thankfully our member was treated and released from hospital. #NorfolkOPP #OPP #Wilsonville https://t.co/rcAiC263kz
— OPPA (OPP Association) (@OPPAssociation) October 6, 2021
See below for official news release from the Norfolk County OPP Detachment.
FROM/DE: Norfolk County Detachment DATE: October 6, 2021
OFFICER DRAGGED BY VEHICLE TRANSPORTED TO HOSPITAL
28 Year Old Driver Facing Several Charges
NORFOLK COUNTY, ON) – On Tuesday, October 5, 2021, at approximately 7:03 p.m., an officer with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Norfolk County Detachment attempted to take an individual into custody at a Queensway East address in Simcoe.
During the interaction the officer was dragged by a Sports Utility Vehicle which then fled from the area. The vehicle was located on Cockshutt Road at which time it became involved in a collision with three police vehicles and construction equipment near Concession 14 of Townsend. The driver was taken into custody without incident and transported to a local area hospital for precautionary measures. The officer was also taken hospital to be treated for minor injuries.
As a result, police have charged 28-year-old, Stevy September Lynn STAATS of Wilsonville, Ontario with the following offences:
Dangerous operation,
• Flight from peace officer,
• Mischief over $5,000 (three counts),
• Mischief under $5,000,
• Assault a peace officer with a weapon (three counts),
• Escape lawful custody,
• Failure to stop after accident,
• Possession for the purpose of trafficking Cocaine,
• Possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order (two counts),
• Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose,
• Resist peace officer,
• Occupant of motor vehicle knowing there was a prohibited or restricted weapon,
• Operation while impaired by alcohol or drugs, and
• Failure to comply with undertaking.
The accused is being held in custody and is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice, Simcoe at a later date.
The severity of the charges stemming from the incident highlights how quickly a single event can escalate into a dangerous situation for both law enforcement and the public. With multiple counts ranging from impaired operation to possession of prohibited weapons, the case demonstrates the legal complexity that follows when criminal activity intersects with violence, evasion, and public safety risks.
The involvement of multiple police vehicles and damage to property only compounds the seriousness of the matter, showing how far-reaching the consequences of such actions can be.
For individuals facing situations that carry overlapping criminal and civil consequences, experienced legal guidance is essential to navigating what can feel like an overwhelming process.
Resources like Law Offices Daniel Kim provide valuable insights into accident-related cases, emphasizing the importance of understanding liability, rights, and legal strategies.
Having a knowledgeable advocate ensures that cases involving collisions, injuries, or other high-stakes outcomes are handled with precision, protecting one’s future while ensuring that the legal process is managed as effectively as possible.
Incidents involving vehicle damage, injuries, or criminal activity often bring not only legal consequences but also complex insurance implications. Determining who is financially responsible for property repairs, medical costs, and liability claims can become a lengthy and confusing process.
Whether you’re a victim seeking compensation or a driver trying to understand your coverage, clarity is crucial to avoid further losses. This is especially true when multiple vehicles are involved, as insurers assess fault, negligence, and the extent of coverage under different policies, making expert guidance and transparent comparisons all the more valuable.
When evaluating coverage options, using platforms like SimplyQuote can help individuals make informed decisions about the kind of protection they need before an accident occurs. By comparing multiple insurance policies in one place, it becomes easier to find plans that balance affordability with comprehensive protection.
This proactive approach not only safeguards finances but also provides peace of mind, ensuring that in the event of an accident or unexpected claim, you’re adequately covered and well-prepared to handle the aftermath responsibly.
-30-
Contact: Acting Sergeant Ed Sanchuk
Phone: 519-426-3434
Email: Edward.Sanchuk@opp.ca
TWITTER: @OPP_WR
Inspector Chris Collins from the Ontario Provincial Police’s (OPP) Uniform Recruitment Unit and OPP Association Director Mike Adair join the 10-5 Podcast for the conclusion of our discussion on the OPP’s current uniform recruiting efforts including northern recruiting, the employee referral program and secondary assessments of candidates.
For further information on the OPP’s Uniform Recruitment Unit, please visit opp.ca/careers, email uniformrecruitment@opp.ca, visit their Facebook page Facebook.com/OPPCareers, or contact them at 1-877-677-4473.
OPP Association staff wear orange in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2021.
The OPPA is flying a Every Child Matters flag at our Head Office and all flags are at half staff.
The OPP Association Head Office will be closed September 30, 2021 to mark the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff and membership of the Ontario Provincial Police Association, we wish to acknowledge the harm caused by the residential school system in Canada, and commit to honouring the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities.
We believe that the commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process.
We urge all our members and the public to wear orange on September 30th for what was and still is “Orange Shirt Day” and now is rightfully so the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.
Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day that honours the children who survived Indian Residential Schools and remembers those who did not. This history of this day relates to the experience of Phyllis Webstad, a Northern Secwpemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation, on her first day of school, where she arrived dressed in a new orange shirt, which was taken from her. It is now a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.
We recognize that this day will carry sorrow and grief for many. We encourage former Residential School students to call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports.
Indigenous peoples across Canada can also go to The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for counselling and crisis intervention. Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat.
For our own OPP Association members, the Encompas Mental Wellness Program is available 24/7 by calling 1-866-794-9117 or visiting online at EncompasCare.ca.
We encourage our members and the public to review the report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, specifically the “Delivering on Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action“. One of the Calls To Action was designating September 30th as the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. Please consider any actions that you and we can take to move forward in unity together.
Meegwetch.
Rob Stinson
President, Ontario Provincial Police Association