Police officer charged with voyeurism, trespassing, breach of trust

HALIFAX — A Halifax police officer has been charged with on-duty voyeurism following complaints involving several alleged victims.

Const. George Farmer has also been charged with trespassing by night and breach of trust.

Halifax Regional Police issued a statement late Wednesday saying the alleged crimes took place while the officer was on duty between Nov. 23 and Dec. 3 in the 700 block of the Bedford Highway in Bedford, which is north of peninsular Halifax. Police Chief Jean-Michel Blais says he recognizes that this kind of case undermines public trust.

The officer has worked with Halifax Regional Police for 11 years.

He has been suspended with pay and is expected to appear in court Jan. 16.

“Any time a police officer is charged with a criminal offence, it is disconcerting, not just for our employees, but also the citizens and communities we serve,’’ Blais said. “We can’t discuss the details of the offence, but I can confirm that as soon as we became aware of the matter, we initiated a thorough investigation.’’