The North Bay Police Service is dealing with a budget deficit of more than $350,000 and senior administrators said it's largely due to officers claiming for post-traumatic stress disorder.
At a police board meeting on Tuesday, Chief Shawn Devine said a single post-traumatic stress claim is costing the force nearly $300,000 alone.
He told CTV this all stems from what's called ‘presumptive legislation’ that took effect in 2016.
It means an employee is presumed to have PTSD as soon as the claim is made.
The chief said the legislation means huge financial implications for police forces, but Devine said he understands it's a disorder which needs to be addressed.
Chief Devine said the department is working with a consultant on how to deal with cases under the new legislation.
He said the police board is also looking to budget in the future for more PTSD claims.
