The letter arrived not as a threat, but as a formality. Two detectives delivered it by hand to retired Toronto Police Inspector Hank Idsinga, a follow-up to an initial email regarding his explosive revelations. Idsinga, a 34-year veteran of the force, wasn’t intimidated – he’d been on both sides of such visits countless times.
His book, “The High Road: Confessions of a Homicide Cop,” ignited the controversy. Within its pages, and in a subsequent interview, Idsinga detailed instances of antisemitic and racist language he’d encountered during his career, suggesting a troubling undercurrent within the Toronto Police Service. He spoke of a “culture” problem, a claim that resonated deeply given his own family history – his Jewish grandfather perished in the Holocaust.
The response from the police was swift and defensive. A spokesperson stated they wouldn’t comment on allegations tied to “book promotion,” emphasizing Idsinga hadn’t utilized internal reporting mechanisms during his time with the service. They urged him to come forward now, a request he dismissed as “laughable” given the public nature of their reaction.
The book’s impact was immediate. It quickly climbed the Amazon bestsellers list, sparking conversations and even talk of a potential film adaptation. A celebratory launch at Noonan’s Pub drew a large crowd, a testament to Idsinga’s respected reputation within the city’s law enforcement community.
The situation has fractured the ranks of both active and retired officers. Former Chief Julian Fantino sharply criticized Idsinga, accusing him of inaction and sensationalism. Others, like crime commentator Ross McLean, argued that Idsinga’s concerns deserved careful consideration, not dismissal.
Idsinga maintains he simply recounted his experiences, a memoir of his life as a homicide detective, including his work on high-profile cases like the Bruce McArthur investigation. He isn’t demanding an inquiry or filing a complaint; he’s sharing his story. But the questions linger: can lessons be learned, and can the service improve?
The current Chief, Myron Demkiw, faces a delicate situation. Sending detectives to Idsinga’s door and witnessing former colleagues publicly criticize him haven’t eased tensions. A more constructive approach might involve inviting external organizations – groups like B’nai Brith and the Black Legal Action Centre – to review the book and offer their perspectives.
Ultimately, the goal should be improved policing. Whether through internal review or an independent investigation, the potential for positive change remains. This isn’t about silencing a whistleblower, but about confronting difficult truths and building a more equitable and trustworthy police service.
Idsinga isn’t seeking conflict. He’s a respected figure, known for his dedication and integrity. His story, though unsettling, presents an opportunity – a chance to examine the culture within the Toronto Police Service and strive for a better future.
