JUNKIE COP ’FIT FOR DUTY’

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JUNKIE COP 'FIT FOR DUTY'

Prosecutor, Defence Agree To 14 Conditions

A TORONTO drug cop who was suspended after becoming a cocaine addict
shouldn't lose his job, a police tribunal hearing heard yesterday. In a
joint submission, the prosecution and defence said Robert Kelly is fit for
duty even though he pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing cocaine.

Kelly was arrested in a Nov. 16, 2001 sting set up by an RCMP-led special
task force probing drug squad corruption.

Kelly, 38, was given a suspended sentence, two years of probation and 200
hours of community service in March on the cocaine charges.

To keep his job, Kelly would agree to 14 conditions that include random
drug tests for the rest of his career, a demotion and desk duty where he
wouldn't carry a gun.

"The joint submission is a very close step away from dismissal -- it's not
just a wrap on the knuckles," prosecutor Staff Insp. George Cowley said.

The defence said Kelly's spiral into disgrace was the result of a string of
tragic events including the death of his father, his partner being shot on
duty, and the breakup of his nine-year common-law relationship.

"He developed a post-traumatic stress disorder and was self medicating
himself (with cocaine). The addiction was job related ... he wasn't
indulging in a narcotic for pleasure," defence lawyer Peter Brauti said.

Brauti also said Kelly had asked for transfers out of the drug squad on
three occasions.

"The rule of thumb is three years is the maximum length of time to be on
the drug squad. (Kelly) was there five years. He was told he was too
valuable and couldn't be replaced. The length of his tenure added to his
problems," Brauti said.

Outside the tribunal, Brauti said Kelly may have a civil case against the
police.

A ruling is set for Sept. 30.