The Hon. William Colter

This interview focuses primarily on Justice William Colter’s lengthy public inquiry into the Niagara Regional Police Force, which began in 1988 and took nearly five years to complete. Colter details the complex investigation into allegations against Chief Gayder regarding seized weapons, nepotism, and other misconduct claims. The inquiry revealed deep factional divisions between former Niagara Falls and St. Catharines police forces that persisted after regionalization. Most allegations proved unfounded, stemming from rumours and personal animosity, particularly from Police Commissioner Mrs. Taylor and Sergeant Vandermeer.

The inquiry was televised and involved extensive evidence from multiple counsel, Metropolitan Toronto Police investigators, and numerous witnesses. Colter found that while Chief Gayder exercised poor judgment in some matters, there was no criminal misconduct. The stress of the investigation contributed to Gayder’s resignation and possibly his death shortly after. Colter also discusses his later work with the Ontario Review Board, dealing with mentally disordered accused persons, and reflects on his legal career, expressing concern about modern legal practice pressures compared to his earlier, more collegial experience.

This description was written by AI and may contain some inaccuracies.