Five years after an independent review called for systemic reforms in how the Toronto Police Service (TPS) handles missing persons investigations, the force claims significant progress has been made. Despite this, many in the LGBTQ+ community argue that little has changed.

The *Missing and Missed* Review

The review, titled Missing and Missed, was commissioned in 2018 following the arrest of serial killer Bruce McArthur. McArthur pleaded guilty to murdering eight men, most of whom were immigrants or refugees from South Asia or the Middle East with ties to Toronto’s Church-Wellesley Village, between 2010 and 2017.

Prior to McArthur’s arrest, the LGBTQ+ community repeatedly warned TPS about a potential serial killer targeting vulnerable individuals in the area. These concerns were initially dismissed, sparking widespread outrage.

Recommendations and Police Response

The 2021 report included 155 recommendations aimed at improving missing persons investigations, reducing systemic bias in policing, and fostering better community trust. Recommendations included clearer guidelines for reporting missing persons, eliminating discriminatory practices, and enhancing collaboration between police and marginalized groups.

In a recent update, TPS announced the implementation of 98 of the 155 recommendations—approximately 63%. Improvements cited include the creation of Community Conversation Circles, updated missing persons protocols, and the publication of The Community Guide to Report a Person Missing. Chief Myron Demkiw stated these changes reflect a more responsive and community-centered approach to policing.

Community Skepticism Persists

Despite the reported progress, LGBTQ+ advocates and community members remain skeptical. Many still hesitate to engage with police, fearing discrimination or inadequate support.

The Alliance for South Asian AIDS Prevention (ASAAP), a key advocate for the review, continues to collaborate with TPS on training programs related to cultural sensitivity, mental health, and HIV stigma.

However, Tyllin Cordeiro, director of programs at ASAAP, noted that many individuals still avoid reporting crimes or missing persons cases to police, preferring to seek help from community organizations.

Srutika Sabu, ASAAP’s manager of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility, emphasized that structural injustices persist, with racialized and LGBTQ+ individuals often facing hostile or dismissive treatment from officers.

A queer, South Asian resident of Church-Wellesley, speaking anonymously due to fear of police retaliation, echoed these concerns. They described a lack of meaningful updates on missing persons cases and a pervasive distrust of law enforcement, rooted in historical and ongoing mistreatment.

The resident expressed doubt that the recommendations from the Missing and Missed report have led to tangible improvements in police-community relations. This gap between TPS’s claims of progress and the lived experiences of marginalized communities highlights ongoing challenges in reforming policing practices and rebuilding trust.