Former TBPS Lawyer Holly Walbourne Found Not Guilty

Former Thunder Bay Police Service lawyer Holly Walbourne has been found not guilty of obstruction of justice and breach of trust in a case tied to the police service’s investigation of former police board chair Georjann Morriseau.

The charges centred on allegations that Walbourne misled the Ontario Civilian Police Commission about what she knew, and when she knew it, regarding a criminal investigation TBPS was conducting into Morriseau.

Court Rejects Crown Allegations

Justice Robert Goldstein delivered the not-guilty verdict Friday, acquitting Walbourne of the charges.

The Crown alleged Walbourne knew earlier than she stated that the Morriseau matter had become criminal in nature. The case also examined information provided to the police board and to OCPC investigators.

Walbourne had pleaded not guilty. With the acquittal, the court has found the Crown did not prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.

Legal Context

Breach of trust by a public officer is covered under section 122 of the Criminal Code of Canada. The offence applies to an official who, in connection with their duties, commits fraud or breach of trust. It can carry a maximum sentence of five years if prosecuted by indictment.

Obstruction of justice is covered under section 139. The Criminal Code states that a person who intentionally attempts to obstruct, pervert or defeat the course of justice can face a maximum sentence of up to 10 years if prosecuted by indictment.

No sentence applies in this case because Walbourne was acquitted.

Why It Matters in Thunder Bay

The case is part of a broader period of scrutiny involving senior Thunder Bay police leadership, police board governance and outside oversight. The OCPC’s earlier review examined allegations connected to the Morriseau investigation and the administration of TBPS.