Independent officer to decide fate of Saskatoon officer fired over gang associate friendship

The future of a Saskatoon police officer who was fired over his ties to a gang associate is now in the hands of a hearing officer. Stacey Hein reports.

Whether a Saskatoon police officer’s friendship with a gang associate makes him “unsuitable” to wear the badge is now up to an independent hearing officer.

Sgt. Robbie Taylor was fired from the Saskatoon Police Service in March over his friendship with a Hells Angels associate, who cannot be named due to a publication ban.

A hearing to appeal his dismissal began in September, with witnesses including former colleagues and the current chief of police appearing before hearing officer Ronni Nordal.

The hearing resumed Monday with two men testifying about their struggles with addiction, saying Taylor helped turn their lives around.

During closing arguments, Saskatoon Police Service lawyer Ashley Smith said the issue isn’t Taylor’s ability as an officer, but his friendship with the associate.

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Smith argued Taylor used his position to benefit the associate, pointing to a traffic stop he tried to intervene in and a reference letter he wrote to the Parole Board of Canada supporting a pardon application.

She referenced Chief Cam McBride’s testimony that the friendship damaged public trust and put the service at risk of being seen as corrupt.

Taylor’s lawyer, Brian Pfefferle, disagreed, saying people matter more than perception.

He said respect and compassion are key traits of a good officer, qualities Taylor showed through his friendship, and he remains more than suitable to wear the badge.

“He’s always respected his duties as an officer. He hasn’t leaked any information. To call him unsuitable is outlandish given his character and service,” Pfefferle told reporters Monday.

He is asking that Taylor be immediately reinstated with no penalty, and is also seeking $250,000 in damages.

Hearing officer Nordal is expected to issue a written decision in the coming months.