An independent investigation ordered by Orangeville Police Chief Joe Tomie has resulted in a town police officer being cleared of any criminal wrongdoing.

The officer’s actions during an incident in December 2008 at the Galaxy cinema were criticized by a trial judge in dismissing charges against the 20-year-old the officer had arrested.

In dismissing the charges, Ontario Court Justice Charles Vaillancourt suggested the arresting officer had engaged in an excessive use of force.

“The comments of Justice Vaillancourt were of great concern to me and I felt that a full investigation into the matter was the most appropriate course of action,” said Chief Tomei.

After a thorough investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police Professional Standards Branch, it was determined that there were no reasonable grounds to believe that a criminal offence was committed by the officer.

“The officers involved were acting in good faith based on information received from a member of the public. Although Justice Vaillancourt was critical in some respects, he did acknowledge and justify the gunpoint arrest of this individual,” added Chief Tomei.

Justice Vaillancourt, in his judgment, also raised concerns about the police response on the night of the arrest, specifically on the location of the arrest. Those concerns were also reviewed. The force said amendments regarding training and policy and procedures “have been addressed internally.”