Canton Reporter

The Mayor of Canton, Thomas Sherer, has released a statement addressing the termination of Police K-9 Officer Nicholas Casto. This decision follows actions that have been deemed unreflective of the standards upheld by the Canton Police Department.

In his statement, Mayor Sherer emphasized the importance of community trust and safety, stating: “The residents of Canton deserve to feel safe and protected by those appointed and sworn by an oath to do so. The behavior exhibited by Officer Nicholas Casto is not a reflection of the men and women of the Canton Police Department that wake up every morning with the mission to serve and protect."

Mayor Sherer expressed his support for Safety Director Andrea Perry's decision, saying, "I fully support Safety Director Perry’s decision to terminate Officer Casto’s employment with the Canton Police Department." He further stressed that this action serves as an opportunity for corrective measures: "Canton deserves better than what we all saw, and we will do better. This is our opportunity to take corrective action on incidents that compromise the integrity of our values as a community."

Sherer also highlighted his commitment to maintaining community trust: "As the Mayor of Canton, nothing means more to me than the trust of this community, and our safety forces." He conveyed confidence in Police Chief John Gabbard's leadership, stating: "I fully support the leadership of our Police Chief John Gabbard and truly believe he is the right person to lead Canton’s finest. Together, we will move Canton forward.”

A termination letter from Director of Public Safety Andrea Perry is available for public viewing.