OPP detachments across the province are listening to feedback from community members and working with community-based organizations to create and strengthen community policing initiatives.
Community partnerships are an essential part of creating and maintaining safe communities. For example, OPP detachments regularly work alongside community-based organizations to implement Mobile Crisis Response Teams (MCRTs) to enhance the response to mental-health related calls. To learn more about MCRTs and other community partnerships related to community member mental health, visit Ontario Provincial Police - Mental Health.
A specific example of these partnerships in action is the Pathway Project at Dryden Detachment. The Pathway Project is a collaborative team of Addiction Specialists with lived experiences, addictions treatment partners, and OPP police officers. This program focuses on ending the negative cycle of enforcement and addiction through individualized care, investment, and advocacy towards treatment and rehabilitation. Led by the OPP and Adult & Teen Challenge, the Pathway Project currently focuses on persons suffering from addiction in the City of Dryden and surrounding area. In the first year of the program, there was a reduction of 268 calls for service.
Community patrol, or focused patrol, is an enforcement initiative that detachments can implement to respond to community concerns or in response to trends in local data. Focused patrols aim to reduce crime and victimization, maximize resource deployment, and enhance community safety.
For example, in summer 2024, a focused patrol initiative was conducted in the downtown core in Fort Frances. This initiative was created to respond to community concerns related to an increase in nuisance offences in downtown Fort Frances. The project saw an increase in occurrences in the downtown core as a result of increased police presence. During the initiative, officers conducted 40 foot patrols which resulted in 41 Liquor Licence and Control Act (LLCA) charges laid, five (5) LLCA warnings issued, five (5) warrants executed, four (4) Criminal Code charges laid, three (3) Controlled Drugs and Substances Act charges laid, and one (1) Highway Traffic Act charge laid.
The OPP Auxiliary is a group of dedicated volunteers who work with OPP officers to ensure safety and well-being for the Province of Ontario.
The OPP Auxiliary mission is “to provide fully trained volunteer Auxiliary members to assist in the delivery of traffic safety and community-based crime prevention initiatives and; to perform police duties only in special circumstances, including an emergency that the police officers of the OPP are not sufficiently numerous to deal with."
Auxiliary members assist OPP officers. Their duties may include patrols with regular members and assisting with community events, seat belt clinics, RIDE initiatives, safety displays, presentations, victim assistance and ceremonial duties. In addition to being a fulfilling way to give back to your community, the Auxiliary program is a valuable learning experience for people who may be considering a career in law enforcement.
More information about the OPP Auxiliary and how to apply can be found here Ontario Provincial Police - Auxiliary Policing Program.
OPP Auxiliary members collected over 86,737 pounds of food and toys in holiday donation drives.
Pictured below: In 2024, Auxiliary S/Sgt Garry Bartlett was recognized for 50 years of Auxiliary service.
In 2024, the total number of hours volunteered by OPP Auxiliary members increased by 13.9% over 2023.
Did you know OPP Auxiliary members completed 31,136 patrol hours in 2024?
OPP Auxiliary members conducted 23,814 hours of community engagement in 2024.
"Volunteers for a Better Community"
Based on data collected using the Brief Mental Health Screener (BMHS) :
| Number of Mental Health-related Occurrences | 29,080 |
| % of individuals taken to hospital | 46% |
| % with previous contact - no mental health apprehension | 38% |
| % with previous mental health apprehension | 12% |
| Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) involvements | 18,541 |
What is the Brief Mental Health Screener?
The Brief Mental Health Screener (BMHS) is a standardized, science-based assessment that helps officers better respond to people experiencing a mental health crisis and communicate more effectively with mental health professionals at the hospital.
The OPP works with other first responders and service providers to ensure community safety and well-being, including by administering Naloxone and responding to overdoses when necessary. While the OPP collects and reports on data related to the OPP response in these occurrences, this data does not capture the full extent of substance use and the opioid crisis in Ontario.
| NALOXONE ADMINISTRATIONS | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Individuals Administered Naloxone | 77 | 87 | 88 |
| Number of Naloxone Administrations | 145 | 174 | 164 |
Note: Individuals who received more than one administration of Naloxone were only counted once for the total individual count.
In 2024, opioids were involved in more than 85% of fatal suspected overdoses. Opioids were also involved in over 80% of non-fatal suspected overdoses.
| OVERDOSE TYPE | DRUG TYPE | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fatal Suspected Overdose / Overdose | Opioid | 180 | 199 | 132 |
| Non-Opioid | 23 | 15 | 23 | |
| Total | 203 | 214 | 155 | |
| Non-Fatal Suspected Overdose / Overdose | Opioid | 716 | 599 | 644 |
| Non-Opioid | 501 | 136 | 154 | |
| Total | 1,217 | 735 | 798 |
COMMUNITY MOBILIZATION
The OPP participates in a total of 48 Situation Tables across the province. Community-based partnerships led to OPP participation in:
859
PRESENTATIONS TO COMMUNITY MEMBERS
1,105
COMMUNITY MEETINGS
819
COMMUNITY EVENTS
489
SCHOOL VISITS
The OPP Victim-Centred Approach Team (VCAT) works to implement the building blocks of the Framework for an OPP Victim-Centred Approach by engaging with OPP members, community partners, victim support organizations and other stakeholders to assist and understand the needs of victims/survivors in accordance with victims’ legislative rights and obligations including the Canadian Victim Bill of Rights and the Ontario Victim Bill of Rights.
In February 2024, under the direction and recommendations of the Victim-Centred Approach Team and the RMS Support Unit, a new Victim Support Notification Tool was developed for frontline officers, streamlining referral services related to victim support. The Victim Needs Assessment is included in this plug-in and is an internal tool for officers responding to calls for service, which empowers them to assist and understand the needs of victims/survivors. The Victim Needs Assessment provides an avenue for victims/survivors to tell OPP members, in their own words, whether they may require additional resources and supports. By understanding needs related to communication/understanding, safety, and religious/cultural/spiritual practices, the OPP can ensure proper resources and supports are available. This also ensures a victim-centred approach is established and observed throughout the investigative process.
The Victim Specialist Program is comprised of uniform leadership and civilian Victim Specialists focused on providing compassionate, trauma-informed support to victims, survivors and witnesses of crime. The program facilitates communication and information sharing to ensure victims/survivors are provided the appropriate assistance throughout the investigative process and criminal justice system. The program is governed by the Framework for an OPP Victim-Centred Approach and managed by the Victim-Centred Approach Team. It is a dedicated police-based program, which is separate and distinct from community-based programs that offer victim services. The OPP Victim Specialist Program is modelled after the FBI Victim Specialist Program.
The following OPP Detachments throughout the province have a Victim Specialist currently assigned: Kenora, Orillia, Middlesex (London), Dryden, Essex (Leamington), Upper Ottawa Valley (Pembroke), East Algoma (Elliot Lake), and Red Lake. Victim Specialists are also assigned to General Headquarters in Orillia and the Highway Safety Division Headquarters in Aurora. The Victim Specialist Program is mandated to support investigations under the direction of Major Case Management, Criminal Investigation Branch in fulfilling the Victim Liaison Officer role.
In 2024, seven full-time Victim Specialists provided a total of
6,238 HOURS
OF DIRECT ASSISTANCE TO
2,340 VICTIMS/SURVIVORS
To learn more about these programs and access resources, click here.
What is the definition of direct assistance?
Direct assistance consists of any activity whereby the Victim Specialist is engaging with a victim/survivor/family member, assisting an officer in the engagement of their duties to support a victim/survivor/family member, assisting to engage Victim Services and/or Victim/Witness Assistance Program, safety planning and any travel associated to these tasks.
In 2024, as part of a comprehensive, province-wide initiative in response to increasing occurrences of intimate partner violence, the OPP launched a police-response model, implementing 70 Detachment Abuse Issues Investigators (DAII) across the province. This initiative is led by the Crime Prevention and Community Support Bureau (CPCSB) and is designed to significantly improve the OPP response to abuse investigations, ensuring that we provide the highest level of support to victims.
DAIIs are Detective Constables that provide critical support to frontline officers in the investigation of intimate partner violence and other abuse-related cases. DAIIs conduct case reviews, strengthen community partnerships and offer subject matter expertise to ensure investigations follow a consistent trauma-informed and victim-centred approach. With extensive knowledge and skills, including sensitive communication techniques and a thorough understanding of the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights and the Ontario Victims’ Bill of Rights, they are working diligently to continue to build and foster respectful relationships within communities in alignment with the OPP Values of respect, compassion and fairness.
Beyond their investigative role, DAIIs are familiar with the services, programs and supports available to victims. These highly trained professionals are cultivating strong relationships with local community and justice partners and participating in consultations with both internal and external stakeholders. Their training covers investigative techniques, sexual assault, and intimate partner violence investigations. Their experience with gender-based violence, intimate partner violence, spousal, child, and elder abuse, as well as issues affecting persons with disabilities, are crucial in providing comprehensive support.
Each DAII has been connecting with community organizations to continue building strong, collaborative relationships. The participation of community partners is essential for the success of this new response model. Together, we can create stronger, safer and more supportive communities for everyone. The OPP reaffirms its commitment to justice for those impacted by abuse, keeping victims at the centre of this process. We are thrilled about these operational changes to support victim-centred operations and look forward to partnering with community-based organizations to enhance our collective response to abuse issues, including mass casualty events.
Acknowledging that intimate partner violence is not always reported, OPP data indicates that there were 6,288 victims of intimate partner violence in 2024. This is an 18% increase from 2023 (5,325 victims) and a 34% increase since 2022 (4,694 victims). In 2024, more than 2,700 of the victims were the spouse of the accused and over 1,300 were current dating partners. More than 1,900 victims were the ex-spouse or ex-dating partner of the accused. Over 75% of all victims of intimate partner violence were women (4,727). Intimate partner violence was most often reported in relation to assault and firearms related offences.
| INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE OCCURENCES | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assaults and Firearm Related Offences | 3,170 | 3,516 | 4,249 |
| Other Offences Involving Violence or the Threat of Violence | 652 | 788 | 893 |
| Sexual Offences | 499 | 583 | 654 |
| Offences Resulting in the Deprivation of Freedom | 103 | 138 | 166 |
| Robbery | 10 | 15 | 19 |
| Attempted Murder | 6 | 7 | 5 |
| Homicides* | 9 | 4 | 2 |
| Offences in Relation to Sexual Services | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| TOTAL Occurrences* | 4,450 | 5,051 | 5,988 |
Note: Homicide statistics can change as investigations evolve.
In 2024,
there was an
18% increase
In IPV victims from
the year prior, and over
75% were women.
In 2024, 2,347 victims of violent crime were family members (children, stepchildren, parents, stepparents, other immediate family and extended family) of the accused. Almost 60% of these victims were women or girls. Family violence was most often reported in relation to assaults and firearms related offences (approximately 73% of occurrences), The second most common offence group was sexual offences, representing over 13% of family violence occurrences.
The OPP has seen a rise in elder abuse and elderly victims (victims aged 65 or older) of crime over the last three years.
| OFFENCE TYPE | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Violent Crime | 1,525 | 1,727 | 2,070 |
| Homicides* | 6 | 5 | 6 |
| Other Offences Causing Death | 2 | 1 | -- |
| Attempted Murder | 6 | 3 | 3 |
| Sexual Offences | 113 | 124 | 166 |
| Assaults/Firearm Related Offences | 957 | 1,095 | 1,258 |
| Offences Resulting in the Deprivation of Freedom | 4 | 8 | 5 |
| Robbery | 30 | 34 | 29 |
| Other Offences Involving Violence or the Threat of Violence | 407 | 457 | 603 |
| Property Crime | 4,160 | 4,372 | 4,204 |
| Arson | 9 | 18 | 12 |
| Break and Enter | 693 | 607 | 643 |
| Theft Over | 437 | 455 | 365 |
| Theft Under | 1,007 | 976 | 911 |
| Possession/Trafficking Stolen Goods | 95 | 86 | 67 |
| Fraud | 1,436 | 1,717 | 1,739 |
| Mischief | 483 | 513 | 467 |
| Other Criminal Code | 99 | 93 | 140 |
| Controlled Drugs and Substances Act | 11 | 14 | 18 |
| Traffic-Related | 22 | 16 | 34 |
| Other Federal Statutes | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Other Provincial Statutes | 3 | 4 | 6 |
| TOTAL | 5,820 | 6,227 | 6,472 |
The OPP Indigenous Policing Bureau (IPB) provides support and resources to enhance organizational capacity to contribute to advancing effective Indigenous policing in Ontario. IPB consists of four program areas that work collaboratively to achieve the IPB mandate: Ontario First Nations Policing Agreement (OFNPA), the Provincial Liaison Team (PLT), Indigenous Awareness Training Unit (IATU), and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) Team.
IPB highlights from 2024 include:
The OPP administers policing services for 17 First Nations through the OFNPA, under the FNIPP. The OPP provides dedicated policing services to three First Nations with Stream Two Agreements, under the FNIPP. The OPP provides direct policing services to 22 First Nations. The OPP also works with nine self-administered First Nation police services.
What is the OFNPA?
In 2024, the one-week Indigenous Awareness Training Course was offered on three occasions - one session hosted in Orillia and two sessions hosted in Thunder Bay. In total, 61 participants attended the week-long course. The Indigenous Awareness Training Course was also delivered to the Inspectorate of Policing Division of the Ministry of the Solicitor General, in Fort William First Nation. Indigenous Awareness Training content was delivered as part of other courses to over 2,650 participants including more than 470 OPP recruits and 1500 recruits from external agencies. Other participants included Auxiliary members, Special Constables, General Patrol Training Instructors, Experienced Police Officers, Cadets and Provincial Communications Centre members.
What is the IATU?
In 2024, the MMIWG Team continued to work with Ontario's FILU to provide information to families of missing and murdered Indigenous people. The MMIWG Team and other IPB and OPP members supported the planning of the inaugural Women in Indigenous Policing Conference. Over 100 participants - including 39 OPP members - attended this historic event.
What is the MMIWG mandate?
The OPP Framework for Police Preparedness for Indigenous Critical Incidents was applied in 220 incidents in 2024 (183 demonstrations and 37 Indigenous critical incidents). The OPP Framework is consistent with the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP), Policing with Indigenous Peoples (PWIP) Committee's National Framework for Police Response to Demonstrations and Assemblies (National Framework). The Framework approach promotes a well-prepared police response and offers an operationally sound, informed and flexible approach to resolving conflict and consistency in managing crises. In 2024, an updated National Framework and Course Training Standards were released. PLT provided community outreach 2,363 times and provided support to detachments/external police services 4,483 times. The OPP continues to see consistent interest in the PLT program from external law enforcement agencies. In 2024, the OPP delivered training or assisted in the delivery of training on the Framework approach to 699 OPP participants and 209 external participants from external police services.
What is the PLT?
In 2024, the OPP marked five years of meaningful engagement and consultation with the Provincial Indigenous Advisory Circle (IAC) to the OPP - a milestone that underscores an unwavering commitment by all parties to foster strong, respectful relationships between the OPP and Indigenous communities across Ontario.
Since its inception, the IAC has provided invaluable Indigenous-led guidance to program areas from across the OPP, including input on initiatives such as the 2023-2025 Strategic Plan and advice on enhancements to OPP policies and procedures. This engagement is facilitated by the OPP Indigenous Policing Bureau (IPB) on behalf of the Commissioner and is regularly sought out by various OPP program areas.
The IAC has contributed to important discussions related to:
While the IAC focuses on providing guidance to the OPP on a provincial scale, Regional Indigenous Advisory Circles to the OPP have also been established in all five OPP Regions and the Highway Safety Division to strengthen relationships between OPP detachment personnel and the communities they serve. This expansion was identified as a priority by the OPP in 2021 as a direct response to the Calls for Justice outlined in the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) and was realized in 2023. These advisories have impacted community engagement on a local level, increasing the OPP’s ability to address community-specific public safety concerns in a culturally responsive manner.
As the relationships strengthen between OPP and provincial and regional advisory circle members, the connections among the circles themselves also deepen.
In 2024, members from across all advisory circles gathered at OPP General Headquarters to share experiences, lessons learned, successes and opportunities for the future. The circles also maintain an interconnected approach to their respective relationships with the OPP through regular communication and information sharing.
The OPP looks forward to continuing to foster these important relationships to ensure Indigenous perspectives are heard and respected, as we work together to create positive change.
On January 26, 2024, the Epic Ice Road Challenge saw more than 30 cyclists ride nearly 130 kilometres through ice and snow to raise money for the Pikangikum Youth Bike Program. Cyclists navigated ice, ruts and snow drafts to complete the ride from Red Lake to Pikangikum First Nation, with cyclists from various communities joining in for parts of the ride along the way.
The cyclists were greeted by members of the Pikangikum community when they arrived at their final stop, more than seven hours after they departed from Red Lake. Commissioner Carrique and the other cyclists spent time with community members in Pikangikum as they recovered from the ride.
With support from the organization New Hope Community Bikes, the Pikangikum Bike Program aims to bolster youth empowerment and provide leadership opportunities. The program goes beyond teaching people how to ride a bike, it emphasizes the importance of healthy relationships and mental and physical well-being. Community youth organize regular community rides, conduct repairs and maintenance and operate the bike shop in the summer.
On October 20, 2024 the OPP hosted its annual Guardians Run at OPP General Headquarters in Orillia. Runners could participate in-person or virtually in a 5K or 10K run. The Guardians Run is the OPP’s largest fundraising initiative for the Law Enforcement Torch Run which supports Special Olympics athletes and the programming they rely on to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. This year, over 250 runners participated and nearly $40,000 were raised in support of Special Olympics Ontario.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Ontario is the largest public awareness vehicle and grass-roots fundraiser for Special Olympics. The Law Enforcement Torch Run engages law enforcement worldwide with the goal of championing acceptance and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities, starting first with their own communities. Since its inception, the Law Enforcement Torch Run has raised more than $50 million.
The OPP is collaborating with community-based organizations to implement an ambassador program at local detachments. This program includes supporting athletes in their Special Olympics ambassador duties by employing them in a variety of part-time roles at detachments. This Special Olympian Ambassador Program aims to support the athletes in developing valuable skills and increasing their independence and confidence. The benefits from this program to the OPP are numerous, with athletes bringing their positive attitudes and work ethic into the workplace.
The importance of youth and fostering positive relationships with youth cannot be overstated, and OPP members across the province prioritize youth engagement while on duty, and often in various volunteer capacities off duty.
In Highway Safety Division, the Inclusion Council supported a youth-led music collaboration focused on inclusion. The diverse group of students got to know each other over the 2023/2024 school year and gained experience performing music on stage and recording in a studio.
In 2024, OPP members were invited to attend countless youth summer camps and community events to build relationships and provide education about important topics related to public safety and crime prevention.
Kenora OPP Detachment Youth Engagement Events
Lambton OPP Detachment members attended the RCMP Musical Ride performance for Petrolia’s 150th Anniversary.
Grenville OPP Detachment and North Grenville Fire Service members received pies in the face in support of local Salvation Army services.
Brant OPP Detachment held a newcomer event for anyone to attend and learn about all the services that the County of Brant has to offer.
Brant OPP Detachment engaged with the Paris High school art class to create dresses out of paper for Red Dress Day that were displayed in the detachment front entry and windows.
Brant OPP Detachment members explained equipment in the car to Youth Academy participants.
Greenstone OPP Detachment members collected donations for United Way’s Period Promise campaign.
Members of Bancroft Detachment hosted “Pancakes with the Police” with North Hastings Children’s Services Experience Summer Camp.
Kenora OPP Detachment Youth Engagement Events
Huronia West OPP Detachment presented to local firefighters about Responder Emergency Aid and Care Training (REACT).
Northumberland OPP Detachment participated in a charity dunk tank in Campbellford.
Rainy River OPP Detachment participated in a fundraising hockey game.
Nottawasaga OPP Detachment members collected new and gently used winter clothes to donate to Contact Community to ensure community members have access to essential winter gear.
Collingwood OPP Detachment presented to seniors about fraud awareness and prevention.
Northumberland OPP Detachment Commander refereed a charity hockey game between Trent Hills Fire Department and local hospital staff.
OPP members positively represent the organization by participating in celebrations, initiatives and programs that promote diversity, equity and inclusion in communities across the province.
In 2024, OPP members were invited to and participated in community-based Black History Month activities, Pride celebrations and days of significance such Lunar New Year, Holi, and Ramadan with community groups across all five OPP Regions and the Highway Safety Division.
Pictured: On December 30, 2024, Commissioner Carrique and members of the Commissioner’s Command Team gathered with community members at OPP General Headquarters to celebrate the Festival of Lights with a Menorah lighting ceremony and to wish everyone a joyful and meaningful Chanukah.
Between January 1 and July 10, 2024, there were 99,794 survey invitation text messages sent out to community members who had contact with the Provincial Communications Centres (PCCs). 29,488 responses were collected for an overall response rate of 29.5%.
Survey results were overall favourable towards the OPP.
Respondents
"STRONGLY AGREE"
that they understood all the
information provided by PCC call takers
(average score 4.57/5.00).
Respondents were
"VERY SATISFIED"
with the service provided
by PCC call takers
(average score 4.55/5.00).
Average scores tended to be slightly higher among respondents in North West and North East Regions and were slightly lower for respondents in West Region.
Respondents who interacted with an OPP officer also scored those interactions highly.
Respondents
"STRONGLY AGREE"
that they understood all the
information provided by the officer(s)
who responded to their call
(average score 4.60/5.00).
Respondents were
"SATISFIED" OR
"VERY SATISFIED"
with the response time to their call
(average score 4.53/5.00).
Respondents were
“VERY SATISFIED”
with the service provided by the
OPP officer(s) with whom they interacted
(average score 4.54/5.00).
Average scores tended to be slightly higher among respondents in North West Region and were slightly lower for respondents in Central Region.
The Provincial OPP Community Satisfaction Survey is a general population telephone survey conducted with households across Ontario. The research company R.A. Malatest & Associates Ltd. conducted this mixed method survey between January 22 and March 26, 2024.
In 2024, Provincial OPP Community Satisfaction Survey results showed 73.1% of survey respondents were overall “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the quality of police service provided by the OPP.
To learn more about the OPP Community Satisfaction Survey, click here.
In 2024, the OPP Research and Program Evaluation Unit facilitated six (6) new Research Agreements and received reports from 13 previous research partnerships. Research topics included artificial intelligence, border security, intimate partner violence, mental health, recruitment and traffic safety.
To learn more, visit Ontario Provincial Police - Research Agreements.
What is a Research Agreement?
Did you know that the OPP enters Research Agreements with external researchers to facilitate research on topics relating to policing?
