Ron Taverner has withdrawn from consideration to be the next commissioner of the Ontario Provincial Police. He did so in a statement released Wednesday citing his desire to protect the integrity of front-line officers. Taverner, 72, is a long-time Toronto police superintendent and personal friend of Premier Ford. “This decision is not an easy one for me to make,” Taverner said. “I believe the OPP requires new leadership and a change in culture at its most senior levels. The thousands of men and women who make up the front lines of the OPP deserve leadership that will put their concerns and well-being at the forefront of decision-making.” The announced appointment of Taverner to the OPP post was met with bitter opposition from Deputy OPP Commissioner Brad Blair who was fired from his position this week.
- OPP deputy fired in open-warfare with Ford over Taverner
- Taverner asks delay so his nod to OPP boss can be reviewed
- Picture of unknown origin spreading among Ford critics
