Following a pledge to review how sexual assault cases are investigated, London's chief of police has issued an apology aimed at the victims.
"It is with those victims in mind that I would like to apologize to any victims whose experiences left them feeling that they were not supported, or that may have eroded their trust in this police service in any way," Chief John Pare said in a written statement on Monday. "It was with those victims in mind that I implemented the full review of the London Police Service practices regarding sexual violence investigations."
Over the weekend, Pare announced that the service will be conducting a review of the way police investigate and clear sexual assault cases. The service will also examine the method in which cases are categorized and cleared.
According to a report by the Globe and Mail, one in five reported sexual assaults in Canada are deemed “unfounded” by police. In London, the figure is nearly one in three.
"Because, we are human beings, because we are not perfect, there is always room for improvement," said Parr, who added that he had already begun the review process.
"[On Monday], I met with members of my staff and some of our community partners to begin to explore how together, we can improve upon how our members deal with victims and investigate sexual violence investigations," he said. "I am very encouraged by the positive and productive conversations that took place."
-With files from Mark Brown