Officer Convicted Of Sexual Assault

Earlier today, York Regional Police Constable Young Min VON SEEFRIED #1749 was convicted of one count of Sexual Assault in the Ontario Court of Justice.

It is extremely disappointing to have one of our officers charged and convicted criminally. However, it is by no means a reflection on the hard-working men and women of York Regional Police, who are professional, dedicated and do their jobs every day with integrity and respect.

Let me be clear – York Regional Police will not tolerate any behavior that victimizes anyone in our community. We are committed to our value of accountability and we take any allegation against our members very seriously.

York Regional Police contacted the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) on January 4, 2015, regarding a complaint of a sexual nature against the officer, which was alleged to have taken place that same day during a traffic stop in the Town of Richmond Hill.

As a result of the SIU investigation, on June 8, 2015, Constable VON SEEFRIED was charged with one count of Sexual Assault and was found guilty today, Thursday, November 17, 2016.

The fact the information was acted on immediately, with the SIU contacted the same day the incident happened and the victim filed her report, proves our internal investigation procedures are clear and are being followed.

I would remind the members of York Regional Police that the questionable, and sometimes criminal, actions of one member does not and should not reflect on the entire service. In an organization of our size, these situations do come up from time to time and the best way to deal with them is head on – investigating thoroughly and laying charges when appropriate or contacting the proper oversight body to ensure a comprehensive investigation takes place.

Constable VON SEEFRIED is 33 years old and has been employed with York Regional Police since 2006, working in #5 District uniform patrol.

He was suspended with pay when the charge was laid and will continue to be suspended until all court proceedings, including the sentencing hearing and the 30-day appeal period, are complete.

A parallel Police Services Act investigation by the Professional Standards Bureau is ongoing.

Prepared by: Chief Eric Jolliffe

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