A year after RCMP “became aware of allegations of fraud within the Fort Liard RCMP detachment”, one of its members is facing charges.
Cpl. Curtis Ping, 59, has been charged with: Fraud over $5,000, Fraud under $5,000 and Breach of trust by a public officer.
NT RCMP says it launched an internal code of conduct investigation and Ping has been suspended with pay since the start of the investigation.
“In general, under the RCMP Act, a Commanding Officer of a Division has the authority to suspend a member with, or without pay,” says RCMP spokesperson Marie York-Condon. “Each situation is assessed on a case by case basis.” She did not offer any additional information on what factors led to Chief Supt. Jamie Zettler to allow Ping to maintain his pay.
Darlene Ping, 56, has also been charged with Fraud over $5,000, Fraud under $5,000, Falsification of records or books, Falsification of employment records with intent to deceive.
The two are scheduled to appear in Yellowknife Territorial Court on September 15.
“As the police of jurisdiction, we are responsible to hold anyone who is alleged to have committed fraud, accountable,” said Insp. Amber Clark, the officer in charge of South District of NT RCMP. She added that RCMP would not be commenting further.
Updated July 6 with comments on suspension with pay.
