Ottawa police depend on each other for back-up in risky situations. To feel others are suspicious of you must impact your well-being significantly.

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An Ottawa man I will refer to as “J” has wanted to be a police officer for as long as he can remember. It isn’t just the shiny badge, or the crisp uniform. Nor is it the opportunity for better pay and a decent pension on retirement. J’s brother fell into crime, and he has seen how heartbroken his parents are. “I wanted to make a difference, I did not want anyone to experience that pain. I wanted to fight crime head-on,” he says.

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J applied time and time again, but his application never got further than filling out the extensive application form. He was never called for an interview. Never approached further than simply, “We have received your application.”

I ask him if he is worried that his chances have been reduced because he mentioned his brother when he applied.........

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