Last day of testimony in hearing for Hamilton Police Sergeant

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The disciplinary hearing of Hamilton Police Sergeant Helena Pereira concluded its 7th day today. Today, a retired Hamilton police officer testified that officers attempting to book a prisoner had lost complete control of the situation, before Sgt. Pereira intervened.

Sgt. Pereira is facing six charges under the police services act in connection with the incident.

Retired Constable Alan Drennan was working as a custody officer on March 29th, 2013. He said he watched in disgust that night as four Hamilton Police officers , attempting to search an intoxicated female prisoner, lost complete control of the situation. “The prisoner had exhibited assaultive behavior, intoxication…they could have fallen over, hurt themselves. Or lashed out and hurt a police officer. And precautions to prohibit this were not being taken.”

As the situation dragged on Sergeant Helena Pereira, who was just coming on duty and still wearing civilian clothes, intervened by pushing the inmate into a cell, twice, before officers were able to close the cell door.

Constable Drennan, who has worked for Hamilton Police services for 24 years before retiring, described Sgt. Pereira as one of the best sergeants on the force. “Probably the best sergeants I’ve worked for in this department” he says “she’s very good – and she shouldn’t be here.”

Today was the last day for testimony in the hearing. Submissions are expected to be heard in the middle of May, and a decision to come shortly after.