Posted on November 22, 2024

More than 35 people have so far been arrested during a new initiative aimed at addressing public safety concerns in the downtown.

In late October, the Guelph Police Service launched the initiative which sees five dedicated officers on foot patrol downtown. These officers provide additional support to our existing downtown team and address public safety concerns, specifically open drug use and associated criminal behaviours.

Of the more than 35 arrests, seven have led to charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act or Criminal Code. More than 25 arrests have led to warnings being issued and immediate referrals to community supports such as Welcoming Streets and IMPACT.

During each interaction, officers seize illicit drugs, removing them from our streets. To date officers have seized quantities of fentanyl, crystal methamphetamine, crack cocaine and morphine pills, as well as drug paraphernalia and one folding knife.

“We will do everything we can to ensure shared public spaces are safe and welcoming for all,” Chief Gord Cobey told the Guelph Police Services Board at its monthly meeting Thursday. “It’s equally important for us to note that we are very mindful of the complexities of issues related to drug dependency, and we will continue to work closely with our social service providers to make sure those who need supports get them.

“Having said that, as a Service it is important for us to recognize it’s still illegal to possess illicit substances, and when lawful grounds exist arrests will be made and drugs will be seized,” Cobey added. “This is going to include our downtown, our parks and our shared public spaces. We will continue to be mindful and have a sophisticated and compassionate approach to those who need it, but we will address open drug use in our public spaces.”

The initiative is ongoing.