Fantino Knows When To Kick Ass

And that is the major reason that No Plan B Mayor Miller worked behind the scenes to stab him in the back. At the same time he is adept at working with those members of the community and the politicos who believe that their is a one tier justice system instead of the current judicial travesty. He has made it clear that he can't solve the problem, that will take someone at the provincial/federal level, he will ensure that laws are not broken.

Caledonia is top priority, Fantino says

New OPP chief says he can't solve problem, but will not allow laws to be broken

Oct. 30, 2006. 12:02 PM

RICHARD BRENNAN

GTA BUREAU CHIEF

ORILLIA - Lawbreakers in Caledonia will be dealt with swiftly, regardless of which side of the native occupation they are on, newly-minted OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino warned today.

Fantino told reporters the controverial native occupation in Caledonia is the single biggest issue facing him in his new post.

"I certainly don't expect that there will be lawbreaking that isn't dealt with and that will be my message to our people as well, that it's their duty and responsibility is to enforce the laws," said Fantino on his first official day on the job.

"I assure that those who do (break the law) will be dealt with."

Under former commissioner Gwen Boniface, the OPP came under criticism for not enforcing the law, in particular when an elderly couple was accosted by native protesters and two camermen were assaulted.

According to witnesses, OPP officers stood back and watched both incidents. Charges were not laid until much later.

Fantino said one of his first priorities is reviewing the large contingent of officers on duty at the site.

"That is certainly one of the issues I will be looking at," he said.

Six Nations protesters have occupied a former subdivision for almost nine months now, an occcupatuon that has badly divided the community.

"These issues are greater than what the police can ultimately resolve," Fantino said.

Officials from the province and the federal governments are currently negotiating with Six Nations representatives.

The commissioner said he was concerned that some in Caledonia want to "hype up" the tensions.

"I would remind everyone of our absolute critical need to preserve the peace to make sure no one gets injured," he said.

Meanwhile, Fantino did not rule out the use of photo radar, but noted that is provincial government policy decision.