Jeffery Turnbull has been acquitted of charges of sexually assaulting a fellow Hamilton police officer in 2022 after a trial that commenced in January. Ontario Justice Jennifer Marie Campitelli delivered her verdict in Burlington, stating she found the complainant’s testimony not credible or reliable and believed Turnbull instead.
Turnbull remained composed upon hearing the not guilty verdict, standing by his lawyer as the complainant and her supporters exited the courtroom. The complainant, whose identity is protected, tearfully embraced someone in the hallway.
During the trial, Crown prosecutor Jason Nicol alleged that Turnbull had engaged in inappropriate behavior towards the younger officer, including making sexual remarks, sending unsolicited messages and gifts, and non-consensual touching before the alleged assault in March 2022.
The complainant testified that Turnbull persistently communicated with her and sent her gifts, including nude photos, despite her lack of interest. She claimed he would discuss his mental health issues and even threaten suicide to manipulate her.
The woman stated that she visited Turnbull’s home in the absence of his wife with her puppy, where he allegedly sexually assaulted her despite her refusal. The defense argued that the interactions between the two were consensual, presenting friendly text conversations as evidence.
Campitelli summarized the arguments from both sides, highlighting discrepancies in the complainant’s testimony and workplace records. She found Turnbull’s account credible and consistent with independent evidence, while labeling the woman as dishonest and evasive.
The justice pointed out inconsistencies in the complainant’s statements regarding the timing of events and gifts received from Turnbull. Campitelli deemed the woman’s version of events regarding the assault at Turnbull’s residence as improbable.
Despite the Crown’s allegations, Campitelli concluded that there was not enough evidence to prove non-consensual conduct beyond a reasonable doubt, leading to Turnbull’s acquittal.
Turnbull remains suspended with pay pending further actions from the Hamilton Police Service’s Professional Standards team. The Hamilton Police Association pledged support for both parties involved in the lengthy and challenging legal process.
The next steps may involve internal investigations, depending on directives from Chief Frank Bergen or the Law Enforcement Complaints Agency. The woman continues to serve as a Hamilton police constable, while Turnbull could potentially return to his duties.