Mon, 13 Jun 2005 

Edmonton's acting police chief has ordered an internal investigation into an e-mail distributed among some officers.

Chief Daryl da Costa describes the correspondence as "racist, discriminatory and disgusting."

"I was disgusted by the content of the e-mail and disappointed," he said. "We want to deal with these issues. We all find them disappointing and we want to make sure everybody in our organization knows it's not appropriate and we won't tolerate it."

The e-mail reportedly cites 10 ways to deal with aboriginals.

The issue adds to a growing list of internal investigations into allegations of misconduct by the force in Edmonton.

Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel says he's also disappointed by the allegations, but approves of the swift action taken by the acting chief.

"This is an issue that chief da Costa is attacking right up front, no fooling around. He's going to deal with it efficiently and effectively," said Mandel.

"There's zero tolerance ... we can't tolerate any kinds of comments in e-mails or treating people that way at all. It's unacceptable in Edmonton, it's unacceptable anywhere."

He says he thinks people still have confidence in the police force, but that those responsible for the racist e-mail should not be working for the police.

Da Costa says internal affairs will handle the disciplinary investigation, but it's too early to say if there will be any criminal charges.

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