The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary is reporting a decrease in the number of internal, public, and criminal matters involving the conduct of its officers.

In 2015 there were 40 internal investigations, 31 public complaints, and 11 criminal matters involving RNC officers. In 2020, those numbers had decreased to 15 internal investigations, 27 public complaints, and three criminal matters.

Joe Boland says when he took over as chief, he felt it was paramount to improve the accountability of officers “right up to the Chief’s Office” to help improve public confidence.

“Certain individuals that have caused problems are no longer in the organization,” says Boland, which he believes is reflected in the decrease in numbers.

Chief Boland thinks it’s important that there is transparency in what they do in dealing with police complaints. He says the public needs to know that if a concern is raised, that it’s treated seriously, and that there’s fairness to the officer-involved and to the person who brought forward the complaint.

Chief Boland hopes the numbers continue to trend downward.

The RNC is proud to report a decreasing trend in internal, public and criminal matters.

"I want to thank our members for the commitment, dedication and professionalism they exhibit every day as they work together to build safe and healthy communities.”

– @ChiefJoeBoland, M.O.M. pic.twitter.com/lYXJ7hZFoN

— Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (@RNC_PoliceNL) March 8, 2021