Ottawa Police Constable Goran Beric's Termination Stayed Following 2023 Assault Conviction

By Justin Heath

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has confirmed that it has "stayed" the decision to terminate Constable Goran Beric following his 2023 conviction on charges of assault and assault with a weapon. This development comes after a disciplinary hearing in May 2025, where Beric was ordered to resign within seven days or face dismissal from the force.

Background of the Incident

In August 2021, during an arrest, Constable Beric was involved in an incident where he struck a man with his baton and pinned him down by stepping on his neck for over two minutes. This use of force led to criminal charges, and in October 2023, Beric was found guilty of assault and assault with a weapon. Subsequently, in January 2024, he received a suspended sentence of 30 months' probation and was mandated to complete 200 hours of community service.

Disciplinary Hearing and Stay of Termination

Following the criminal conviction, a disciplinary hearing was conducted by former Ontario Provincial Police Superintendent M.P.B. Elbers. The hearing concluded that Beric had committed discreditable conduct and insubordination, recommending his resignation within seven days or termination from the OPS.

However, the OPS has since stayed the decision to terminate Beric while he waits for an appeal of the OPS hearing and will be collecting full pay during this process.

Community and Organizational Response

The incident and subsequent legal proceedings have sparked discussions within the Ottawa community regarding police accountability and use of force. Advocacy groups have expressed concerns over the handling of the case and the implications of staying the termination decision.

The OPS has stated its commitment to transparency and accountability, emphasizing that the stay does not equate to exoneration and that the matter remains under review pending further legal developments.

Constable Goran Beric's case underscores the complexities involved in addressing misconduct within law enforcement agencies. As the situation evolves, the OPS and the broader community continue to navigate the balance between due process and the imperative for accountability in policing.

Justin Heath

Justin Heath is a  freelance writer for Veritas Expositae

You can reach him at justin.heath@veritasexpositae.com