Decision on proceedings against officer

Police act proceedings against a senior Hamilton officer, David Doel, will now be held in relative secrecy.

That’s the decision made by hearing officer Robert Fitches which was officially released Monday.

Fitches says the decision to move the proceedings in-camera was made to protect the privacy of a female Hamilton police employee who had an intimate relationship with Doel.

Fitches concern was that details from that relationship would cause harm to the woman and to her 12 year old son.

Doel is accused of using his work computer to store pornography, having sex on duty, and using other police surveillance equipment to conduct his own personal investigations.

Fitches admits closing the hearing could bring some disrepute to Hamilton police, but he also believes that damage can be mitigated over time.

And the same couldn’t be said for any damage caused to the woman or her son.